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 fibre input patterns. Basis of the temporal decoding is the activation of K-Ca 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.