Information integration in the brain: modeling a putative function of the astroglial network

Abstract

Astrocytes receive somatic signals carried by blood flow and cerebrospinal fluid, as well as sensory and cognitive information carried by neuronal assemblies. Their position, hub-like structure and intrinsic processing capabilities suggest that they integrate spatially distributed information. Oscillatory synchrony and constructive wave interference have been proposed to constitute mechanisms of neuro-astroglial interaction. We further claim that the astrocytic network appreciates information contents processed by neurons, modulating neuronal activity (and then the behavior) according to valences attributed to them. Here we report our modeling of mental functions of astrocytes and discuss empirical results that could confirm or desconfirm the model.