Thermodynamic limit

Neuronal computation is mediated by spikes, yet it is unclear what the benefits of discrete spiking dynamics over continuous firing rates are. Many theoretical and computational studies treat single neurons as continuous units and their output as an effective firing rate. These works view spiking dynamics as a biophysical constraint, e.g., for energy efficiency. Conversely, other theories suggest that the exact timings of single spikes are meaningful. We propose a novel theory that shows the benefits of spiking dynamics on neural computation. In particular, we show that spiking neural dynamics

…to probe fundamental energy limitations on movement and response to stimuli, two essential markers of living systems. Here we use three-dimensional holographic microscopy and computer simulations to show that halophilic archaea achieve chemotaxis with power requirements one hundred-fold lower than common eubacterial model systems. Their swimming direction is stabilised by their flagella (archaella), enhancing directional persistence in a manner simi