Dynamics of EEGs as Signals of Neuronal Populations

This chapter gives an overview of approaches used to understand the generation of electroencephalographic (EEG) signals using computational models. The basic concept is that appropriate modeling of neuronal networks, based on relevant anatomical and physiological data, allows researchers to test hypotheses about the nature of EEG signals. Here these models are considered at different levels of complexity. The first level is based on single cell biophysical properties anchored in classic Hodgkin-Huxley theory. The second level emphasizes on detailed neuronal networks and their role in generating different kinds of EEG oscillations. At the third level are models derived from the Wilson-Cowan approach, which constitutes the backbone of neural mass models. Another part of the chapter is dedicated to models of epileptiform activities. Finally, the themes of nonlinear dynamic systems and topological models in EEG generation are discussed.