A Realistic Simulation Study of a Multi-Unit Multipath Neural Signal Transmission System

Abstract

The functions performed by the multiplicity of units and paths in neural signal transmission are examined by computer simulation of the afferent limb of the monosynaptic spinal reflex (MSR). The simulation incorporates, in particular, the distributions of the spindle stretch thresholds and affernt conduction speeds, "spatial and temporal" summation at the motoneuron, statistical dependence between system parameters such as afferent conduction speed and spindel stretch threshold, and the so-called granularity (noise) introduced by the sensory encoding process. Results of the study indicate that the multiplicity of units and paths is essential for achieving fidelity of signal transmission in the afferent limb of the MSR.