Stochastic Resonance — Neuron Subthreshold Signal

Optimal noise level enhances detection of subthreshold periodic signals in a leaky integrate-and-fire neuron

Signal amplitude A 0.60

Signal freq (Hz) 10

Noise σ 0.20

Threshold θ 0.80

τ_mem (ms) 20

Firing rate: — Hz

SNR: — dB

Noise optimal: —

Spikes: 0

Stochastic resonance (Benzi 1981, Wiesenfeld & Moss 1995 Nature): adding noise to a subthreshold signal can boost its detection in threshold systems. Optimal noise σ* maximizes SNR. Found in sensory neurons, hair cells (Douglass 1993), and photoreceptors. Classic example of noise-enhanced information processing.