3D axonal network coupled to Microelectrode Arrays: A simulation model to study neuronal dynamics.

Action Potentials in a neuron are generated and propagated by exchange of ions through the membrane. The model of Hodgkin and Huxley (HH) describes these time-dependent complex ion dynamics. We have implemented the FitzHugh-Nagumo model, one of the simplified versions of HH model on a pyramidal neuron with branches of axons to study the spontaneous activity of neurons. The network is then coupled to Micro-Electrode Arrays to record the extracellular potential in a neurochip environment. This in silico model is used to study the coupling of AP with the electrodes. Such a model is also a first step to investigate the morphological influence of neurons on their signaling properties.