Tunable oscillations in the Purkinje neuron

Abstract

In this paper, we experimentally study the dynamics of slow oscillations in Purkinje neurons in vitro, and derive a strong association with a forced parametric oscillator model. We observed the precise rhythmicity of these oscillations in Purkinje neurons, as well as a dynamic tunability of this oscillation using a photoswitchable compound. We found that this slow oscillation can be induced in every Purkinje neuron measured, having periods ranging between 10 and 25 s. Starting from a Hodgkin-Huxley model, we demonstrate that this oscillation can be externally modulated, and that the neurons will return to their intrinsic firing frequency after the forced oscillation is concluded. These findings signify an additional timing functional role of tunable oscillations within the cerebellum, as well as a dynamic control of a time scale in the brain in the range of seconds. © 2012 American Physical Society.