Effects of external periodic stimuli and higher-order interactions on the synchronization of Morris-Lecar neurons

The synchronous behavior of neurons is crucial in information processing and functional execution in the brain. However, how synchronization can be regulated through higher-order interactions and external stimuli remains a key issue in neuroscience. This study investigates the effects of external periodic stimuli and higher-order interactions on the synchronization of Morris-Lecar neurons, focusing on the role of second-order interactions mediated by electrical and chemical synapses. By combining the master stability function and Hamilton energy analysis, the results show that the second-order interactions mediated by both types of synapses significantly enhance synchronization. Appropriate external periodic stimuli can further reduce the required coupling strength for synchronization. In the case of chemical synapses, the network exhibits more complex nonlinear dynamics, and external stimuli may even disrupt synchronization. Moreover, Hamilton energy analysis further reveals the link between energy differences and synchronization. Overall, the findings suggest that intrinsic higher-order interactions and external stimuli jointly determine the synchronization of neurons, providing valuable insights into the synchronization mechanisms of neuronal networks.