This project aims at model-based control of pathological neural activity in the cerebral cortex of a model animal. The pathological dynamics called "spreading depression" (SD) is a massive discharge of neuronal and astrocytic transmembrane ion gradients, which is associated with a prolonged depolarization (approximately 0.5 minutes), and which propagates at a speed of about 3 mm / min in the cortex. It will be examined whether SD can be specifically influenced by electric fields in a closed loop, using modern control theory (Kalman filters).

To implement the project goal, a physiological computer model of SD will be developed, together with an experimental setup (a control circuit and a measuring chamber) and an in vitro animal model (isotropic, tangential brain slice). The control system consists of a feedback loop that uses real-time polarizing electric fields as a controlling force. The development and analysis of the two-dimensional computer model of cortical SD includes a biophysical ion-based model and a reduced normal form model. An essential step is the optimization of the reduced model by integrating reference measurements in a biophysically sound model and off-line data from the experiments.

The following scientists take part in this collaboration:

• Markus A. Dahlem, Institute for Theoretical Physics, Technische Universität Berlin
• Steven J. Schiff & Bruce Gluckman, Penn State Center for Neural Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, College State, USA