A simulation of somatosensory cortical map plasticity

A Hebb-like model of synaptic modification is proposed to explain a variety of effects in somatosensory cortical map plasticity. The model is based on that of E.L. Beinenstock et al. (1982), and incorporates a sliding modification threshold. Computer simulations which demonstrate the essential plasticity effects are presented. A theoretical link is established between the model and the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) hypothesis of synaptic modification offered by M.F. Bear and L.N. Cooper (1989). The model suggests a convergence between theories of visual and somatic sensory cortical plasticity