It was recently found that neuronal (and many other) networks contain some significantly recurring wiring patterns, termed “network motifs,” which are believed to be basic building blocks of these networks and to perform important functional roles in them. We study the functions of neuronal network motifs by computational modeling. We use both the firing-rate and integrate-and-fire models to model the neuronal network motifs. Several interesting functions and dynamics are found in the neuronal network motifs, such as the acceleration and delay of response and long- and short-term memory.

• Received 22 April 2008

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.78.037101