Dynamic temporal decorrelation: An information-theoretic and biophysical model of the functional role of the lateral geniculate nucleus

We investigate if well-known LGN ion channel properties can facilitate information-theoretic optimal coding through temporal decorrelation; and if so, whether the degree of temporal decorrelation can be adapted dynamically to ensure such optimization at longer time scales. Signi cant temporal decorrelation for time lags above 50 ms is achievable in a LGN cell model with inputs generated from natural visual stimuli. Dynamic decorrelation is obtainable through adaptive temporal ltering by varying the resting membrane potential. We conclude that the biophysical properties of LGN cells support the role of temporal decorrelation and enable a plausible feedback control mechanism that dynamically adapt to changes in input statistics.