Neuron and astrocyte computational models for describing the brain complexity

Abstract

This work presents an overview of the most representative models employed for describing the behavior of biological neuronal networks. In particular, the pioneering work of A. L. Hodgkin and A. F. Huxley on the neuron physiology modeling and the developments of E. M. Izhikevich for the description of neuronal networks that are affordable from a computational point of view, will be presented. Moreover, the role played by astrocyte cells will be dealt. Astrocytes not only play a supporting role in correct neuronal function, but also show communication activities, through Ca²⁺ waves, between themselves and with neurons. Furthermore, this kind of signalling is essential for the proper functioning of the human brain neuronal activity, as, for example, in memory and learning. An astrocytes malfunctioning is, in fact, implicated in diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, stroke and epilepsy.