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402-0807-01L 2 Credits

Biophysics of Neural Computation: Introduction to Neuroinformatics

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. em. Dr. Rodney J. Douglas, Prof. em. Dr. Kevan A.C. Martin, Dr. Paul Verschure
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 14:59:32

Objective

This course considers the structure and function of biological neural networks at various levels. The fundamental basis of the function of neural networks lies in the electro-chemical properties of biological membranes. Here the mechanisms of sensory transduction and the generation and transmission of nerve impulses along nerve fibres will be considered. The biological structure of the nerve cell will be described and simplifying models will be developed in order to understand the electrical current flow through simple dendritic cables and the influence of the more complex geometry of neurons on this current flow. The concept of local neuronal circuits will be introduced by considering the rules governing the formation of nerve connections and topographic projections within the nervous system. Communication between neurons in the network will be considered in the context of information flow across synapses and its modification by experience. The action of inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitters and neuromodulators will be analysed so that the dynamics and logic of synaptic function can be discussed. The neural architectures of feedforward and recurrent networks will be developed so that issues of co-ordination, control, and integration of sensory and motor information in neural networks can be considered.

Content

This course considers the structure and function of biological neural networks at various levels. The fundamental basis of the function of neural networks lies in the electro-chemical properties of biological membranes. Here the mechanisms of sensory transduction and the generation and transmission of nerve impulses along nerve fibres will be considered. The biological structure of the nerve cell will be described and simplifying models will be developed in order to understand the electrical current flow through simple dendritic cables and the influence of the more complex geometry of neurons on this current flow. The concept of local neuronal circuits will be introduced by considering the rules governing the formation of nerve connections and topographic projections within the nervous system. Communication between neurons in the network will be considered in the context of information flow across synapses and its modification by experience. The action of inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitters and neuromodulators will be analysed so that the dynamics and logic of synaptic function can be discussed. The neural architectures of feedforward and recurrent networks will be developed so that issues of co-ordination, control, and integration of sensory and motor information in neural networks can be considered.

Resources

Literature

Books: (recommended references, not required) 1. Foundations of Cellular Neurophysiology, D. Johnston + S. Wu, (MIT Press), 1995. 2. An Introduction to Natural Computation, D. Ballard, (Bradford Books, MIT Press) 1997. 3. Neural Computing, R. Beale & T. Jackson, (IOP) 1990.

General Information

Language
German
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
oral 30 minutes

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Biophysics of Neural Computation: Introduction to Neuroinformatics
Uni Irchel Y35 F51
  • Wed 10:15-12:00
2 h weekly

Offered In