Deciphering the neural code: neuronal discharge variability is preferentially controlled by the temporal distribution of afferent impulses

Neuronal discharge variability has typically been studied as a function of stimulus rate in the context of a Poisson point process. Here we report tha t novel discharge behavior is elicited in a model cerebellar Purkinje cell when the timing of afferent impulses follows a pulsed Gaussian stimulation paradigm. We show that under these circumstances effective convergence supe rseded frequency of activation as the independent variable controlling cell discharge. This provides strong evidence that firing rate alone is an insu fficient foundation for the neural code. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.