The inter-connections between neurons are called neural
circuits. Neural circuits are of 4 types: diverging, converging, reverberating and
parallel after–discharge.
- In divergent circuits
one incoming fiber triggers a response in a large number of new neurons which are part
of the circuit. These circuits amplify the signal along the path and they are found in
the sensory and well as motor
system.
- Converging circuits work in
a manner that is reversed from that of diverging circuits. This circuit causes
stimulation and inhibition. They are common in both the sensory as well as motor
pathways.
- In reverberating circuits
an incoming signal travels along a chain made up of neurons, each neuron along the path
is linked with the previous cell by collateral synapses. These are involved in the
control of activities like breathing and the sleep-wake cycle which are rhythmic in
nature.
- Parallel after-discharge
circuits consist of both diverging as well as converging pathways. There are differing
numbers of synapses in each pathway. These circuits result in a burst of impulses,
called the after-discharge. They are involved in complex mental
processing.
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