Morphological complex networks: Can individual morphology determine the general connectivity and dynamics of networks?

Abstract

This article discusses how the individual morphological properties of basic objects (e.g. neurons, molecules and aggregates), jointly with their particular spatial distribution, can determine the connectivity and dynamics of systems composed by those objects. This problem is characterized as a particular case of the more general shape and function paradigm, which emphasizes the interplay between shape and function in nature and evolution. Five key issues are addressed: (a) how to measure shapes; (b) how to obtain stochastic models of classes of shapes; (c) how to simulate morphologically realistic systems of multiple objects; (d) how to characterize the connectivity and topology of such systems in terms of complex network concepts and measurements; and (e) how the dynamics of such systems can be ultimately affected, and even determined, by the individual morphological features of the basic objects. Although emphasis is placed on neuromorphic systems, the presented concepts and methods are useful also for several other multiple object systems, such as protein-protein interaction, tissues, aggregates and polymers.