A Model of Cortical Associative Memory Based on Hebbian Cell Assemblies

Abstract

A model of cortical associative memory, based on Hebb’s theory of cell assemblies, has been developed and simulated. The network is comprised of realistically modelled pyramidal-type cells and inhibitory fast spiking interneurons and its connectivity is adopted from a trained recurrent artificial neural network- After-activity, pattern completion and competition between cell assemblies is readily demonstrated. If, instead of pyramidal cells, motor neurons are used as excitatory neurons in the network, spike synchronization can be observed but after-activity is hard to produce. Geometry dependent time delays below 10 ms have little effect. After-activity is facilitated by increased levels of serotonin and disrupted by low levels. Our results support the biological plausibility of Hebb’s cell assembly theory.