Rank order decoding of temporal parallel fibre input patterns in a complex Purkinje cell model

The processing speed of many neuronal systems requires temporal coding. Recently, a temporal rank order code has been suggested that uses the temporal order of spikes, disregarding their precise timing. A rank order-coded spike pattern can be decoded by an array of synaptic weights and a postsynaptic desensitization process. We show that a multi-compartmental model of a cerebellar Purkinje cell can implement rank order decoding of temporal parallel "bre input patterns. Basis of the temporal decoding is the activation of KCa channels in the Purkinje cell dendrites. The model responds preferentially to spatio-temporal patterns which are ordered according to increasing synaptic strengths. c © 2002 Published by Elsevier Science B.V.