Impact of Dendritic Structures on Neural Processing

This research project explores how the intricate branching patterns of neuronal dendrites contribute to complex cognitive functions. Through collaboration between the University of Zagreb and Columbia University, we’re investigating the computational capabilities that emerge from dendritic morphology.

Research Objectives

Dendritic Integration Analysis

Understanding how dendrites perform local computations through:

• Spatial integration: How signals from different synaptic locations combine
• Temporal dynamics: Time-dependent signal processing in dendritic trees
• Nonlinear transformations: How dendritic geometry enables complex computations

Biophysical Parameter Mapping

Quantifying the relationship between:

• Dendritic branch geometry and electrical properties
• Local ion channel distributions and signal propagation
• Morphological diversity and functional specialization

Methodological Approach

Computational Modeling

• Multi-compartment models: Detailed biophysical simulations of dendritic trees
• Parameter sensitivity analysis: Identifying critical morphological features
• Machine learning integration: Pattern recognition in structure-function relationships

Experimental Validation

Collaborating with experimental neuroscientists to:

• Validate computational predictions with electrophysiological data
• Correlate morphological measurements with functional recordings
• Test hypotheses about dendritic computation in living tissue

Implications for Cognitive Function

This research has profound implications for understanding:

Single-Neuron Computation

How individual neurons can perform complex operations previously thought to require neural networks.

Information Processing Efficiency

Why evolution has produced such diverse dendritic morphologies and what computational advantages they provide.

Neurological Disorders

How alterations in dendritic structure contribute to cognitive impairments in various neurological conditions.

Current Progress

• ✅ Literature review and theoretical framework completed
• ✅ Computational models developed and validated
• 🔄 Experimental collaboration protocols established
• 📋 Data collection and analysis in progress

This work contributes to our fundamental understanding of how the brain’s basic computational units - individual neurons - can perform sophisticated information processing through their dendritic architecture.