A computational multiscale model of cortical spreading depression propagation

Abstract

Cortical Spreading Depression (CSD) is a disruption of the brain hemostasis that, originating in the visual cortex and traveling towards the frontal lobe, temporarily impairs the normal functioning of neurons. Although, as of today, little is known about the mechanisms that can trigger or stop such phenomenon, CSD is commonly accepted as a correlate of migraine visual aura. In this paper, we introduce a multiscale PDE-ODE model that couples the propagation of the depolarization wave associated to CSD with a detailed electrophysiological model for the neuronal activity to capture both macroscopic and microscopic dynamics.

Patient‐specific computational modeling of cortical spreading depression via diffusion tensor imaging

“…Finally, the proposed model can be a solid basis to build upon for tackling more complex problems. As an example, some experimental studies presented in the paper by Cruz and his collaborators show the onset of a lactate wave following the passage of K + ‐induced CSD in mice: by possibly using a more accurate neuronal model (see, for instance Gerardo‐Giorda et al), our method can be coupled with a metabolic model to reproduce such behaviour on real patient geometries.…”