Spike-timing-dependent Plasticity - From Hebbian Rule To STDP

From Hebbian Rule To STDP

According to the Hebbian Rule synapses increase their efficiency if the synapse persistently causes the postsynaptic target neuron to generate action potentials. An often used but not entirely accurate simplification is those who fire together, wire together. With recent advancements in technology we can more precisely measure the spike timing of neurons. As it turns out, the synaptic connection between two neurons is more likely to strengthen if the presynaptic neuron fires off shortly before the postsynaptic neuron. Revisiting the Hebbian rule, we can tweak it to accommodate these temporal aspects. Synapses increase their efficacy if the presynaptic spike arrives before the postsynaptic neuron is activated.