Mathematical Analysis and Simulations of the Neural Circuit for Locomotion in Lamprey

Abstract

We analyze the dynamics of the neural circuit of the lamprey central pattern generator (CPG). This analysis provides insights into how neural interactions form oscillators and enable spontaneous oscillations in a network of damped oscillators, which were not apparent in previous simulations or abstract phase oscillator models. We also show how the different behaviour regimes (characterized by phase and amplitude relationships between oscillators) of forward/backward swimming, and turning, can be controlled using the neural connection strengths and external inputs.