Three-dimensional plotting of neuronal population response patterns

Abstract

A computer technique is described for generating threedimensional plots of the distribution of spike activity in neuronal populations. Data obtained from single neurons in the sensorimotor cerebral cortex of cats are used to plot spike density with respect to depth in the cortex and time following a cutaneous stimulus. The computer programs include a masking (hidden line) subroutine and produce a cross-hatched plot showing the rise and fall of neuronal activity in both space and time. By manipulation of the data matrix and by axis rotations, the plot can be viewed from any desired perspective. This method constitutes a powerful technique for analyzing the spatio-temporal response patterns of neuronal populations. The significance of neuronal population responses for encoding stimulus information and predicting behavior is discussed. Note: Details concerning the computer programs developed for this plotting technique may be obtained from the Division of Systems and Computer Services, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, GA 30901.