Signal-to-noise ratio gain in neuronal systems

Phys Rev E Stat Nonlin Soft Matter Phys. 2001 May;63(5 Pt 1):051912. doi: 10.1103/PhysRevE.63.051912. Epub 2001 Apr 25.

Abstract

We explore the possibility of a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) gain both in a single neuron and a neuronal network. In the presence of a weak sinusoidal or pulse signal and Gaussian noise, the output SNR can exceed the input SNR over a wide range of noise intensities. The high output SNR and SNR gain can be acquired coincidentally at optimal noise levels. The results further verify that noise can play a constructive role in sensory processing in neuronal systems.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Models, Statistical
  • Models, Theoretical
  • Nerve Net*
  • Neurons / physiology*
  • Normal Distribution
  • Potassium / metabolism
  • Synaptic Transmission

Substances

  • Potassium