As part of analyzing network effects of neurophysiological changes after brain insults, we have developed biophysically realistic models of the major dentate cell types and implemented large-scale network simulations of the dentate gyrus to examine circuit plasticity in epilepsy. In early modeling studies, the PI’s work established the importance of spatially restricted low levels of mossy fiber sprouting in the spread of dentate excitability. The dentate network model, considered a bench mark for the large-scale data-driven network modeling approach, is being implemented by several research groups to analyze dentate network function. This model was and remains a powerful working circuit-level predecessor of the famed “blue brain” which remains under construction. Recent and ongoing work we have expanded the model to enable analysis of the impact of interneuronal inhibition on dentate epileptogenesis and rhythms and dendritic integration. These model systems have provided a valuable and readily-accessible tool for neurobiologists to analyze complex dentate network phenomena including epilepsy and memory processing.

Past and Current Funding: F.M. Kirby Foundation, Epilepsy Foundation EF160706, NIH/NINDS R01NS069861