> 
> Nonlinear dendritic integration can be accurately captured by the
> comparmental model which divides dendrites into small sections
> with ion channels and other internal reaction mechanisms. This
> is the most accurate level of modeling. It may be possible to
> simplify this model with machine learning techniques and without
> significant loss in accuracy.


I am well aware of compartmental modelling and have done it myself.  But 
this type of model only accounts for the physical size/character of a 
dendrite, ignoring, in principle, a whole raft of complex molecular 
dynamics of what might be occuring inside it.  Such molecular dynamics will sure 
contribute to the 
nonlinear aspects of a dendrite.  



> 
> >Just as an example, a new type of neuron has recently been discovered that 
> >can hold a steady state of firing in isolation, apply current, rate 
> >increases and remains stable at a new threshold.  It's dynamically 
> >settable, which blows away all standard Integrate & Fire models.  
> 
> I don't know the exact mechanisms that give rise to that type
> of neurons, but the comparmental model should be able to cover
> this. What is needed is a large-scale database of neuronal
> characteristics (automation).

Yes, one can create a model of a neuron that does this, it's already been 
done.  It's far from a standard model though.

My point, however, was that there is an entire world of complexity within 
the cell that will be relevant to its role in a neural network (as opposed 
to simply metabolic)  that we are just beginning to understanding.  


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