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F. Rattay:
"Computational Neuron Simulation for Prosthetics";
Talk: Biophysical Sciences Institute Launch, Durham, GB; 2007-12-13.

Computational Neuron Simulation for Prosthetics

Artificial vision, deep brain stimulation or the control of neural pattern generators for locomotion are challenging examples of neural engineering. Compartment model analysis of central nervous system neurons has been proofed as a useful tool to enlighten several excitation phenomena in functional electrical stimulation.

The presented examples demonstrate quite different aspects of neural modeling. As for cochlear implants, we cannot rely on the results from single fiber measurements of animals because of the unique human morphometry.

Which elements are stimulated in the retina? Usually, it is the axon which is most sensitive to stimulation. However, many axons from a rather large area are passing the stimulating region of an electrode close to the surface of the retina and a point to point mapping cannot be expected under such conditions.

Epidural stimulation of the spinal cord is an effective method to activate and drive the lumbar cord neuronal networks. Using complex patterns of electrical stimulation applied among multiple electrode contacts is not necessary to induce well coordinated lower limb movements. Non-patterned, sustained trains of electrical stimuli delivered to the posterior lumbar cord structures are interpreted by interneuronal spinal circuits to respond with a patterned activity.