Cytoskeletal conformational automata: intra-neuronal support of neural networks

The authors propose a set of models for computing within cytoskeletal filamentous polymers: microtubules (MTs), actin, intermediate filaments and cross-bridging microtubule-associated proteins (MAPs). Signals and information may be represented and transmitted via propagated conformational changes of these structures´ subunits which locally interact via cellular automata-like interactions. Conformational automata may recognize and adapt to neuronal membrane and synaptic events by changing conformational automata patterns, modifying MAP-MT connections, and retrograde signaling. These cytoskeletal functions may subserve dendritic processing, artificial neural-network-like paradigms such as back-error propagation and provide a primary medium for neuronal information processing and storage