Synaptic and Cellular Influences on the Composite EEG Signal During Seizures*

Abstract

We utilize neuronal network models to identify the potential effects of the synaptic, cellular, and membrane behaviors on the characteristics and the composites of epileptic EEG. In these network models the average membrane potential of neurons in a network is calculated while epileptiform activity in this network is simulated. Our results suggest that seizure activity may trigger changes in synaptic efficacy and alter membrane excitability. These alterations contribute to the pattern of frequency changes observed in simulated average membrane potential signal. We suggest that these factors may influence seizure dynamics and contribute to the ictal EEG pattern in humans