Multi-Scale Brain Network Modeling by Integrating DCM and Biophysics

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing brain function studies using different experimental technologies provide incomplete pictures due to varying spatio-temporal sampling rates, necessitating an approach to integrate these measurements for a comprehensive model.

Innovation Solution

Combining dynamic causal modeling (DCM) with biophysics modeling to integrate functional neuroimaging and electrophysiology data, using sequential model fitting to enhance modeling accuracy and generate a comprehensive brain neuronal circuitry model.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple experimental technologies are used to study brain function, then measurement coverage and spatio-temporal resolution are improved, but data integration complexity and model comprehensiveness deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespatio-temporal resolutionVSAvoiddata integration complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple experimental technologies (fMRI, electrophysiology, optical imaging) into a unified multi-scale modeling framework. Different data modalities are integrated through a common computational model that reconciles their varying spatio-temporal resolutions, transforming complex multi-source data into a coherent representation of brain network function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces computational modeling as an intermediary layer between raw experimental data and biological interpretation. This mediator translates data from different measurement modalities with varying resolutions into a unified multi-scale model, resolving the complexity of direct data integration while preserving the unique advantages of each technology.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Loss of information

If a comprehensive model of brain function is constructed, then understanding of brain network function is improved, but computational complexity and data processing requirements worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomprehensiveness of brain function modelVSAvoidcomputational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the comprehensive brain function model into multiple scales (e.g., neural, network, system levels), each handled by specialized computational components. This segmentation allows the model to maintain comprehensiveness while managing computational complexity through modular processing of different spatial and temporal scales separately.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent adds a computational modeling dimension that bridges experimental measurements with biological interpretation. By introducing this intermediate computational layer, the system can process comprehensive multi-modal data without proportionally increasing computational burden, as the modeling framework provides structured organization and efficient computation pathways.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Measurement precision

If sequential model fitting is used to improve modeling accuracy, then model precision is improved, but processing time and computational resources worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodeling accuracyVSAvoidprocessing time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent performs preliminary model fitting at coarser scales or with simplified parameters before refining the model at finer scales. This preliminary action establishes a foundation that guides subsequent detailed fitting, reducing the total computational time required for sequential model fitting while maintaining high accuracy in the final model.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements iterative refinement cycles where the model is fitted, evaluated, and adjusted in periodic stages. Each cycle improves accuracy incrementally, allowing computational resources to be distributed efficiently across multiple processing stages rather than requiring all resources simultaneously, thus managing processing time while achieving high modeling precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentEP4038550B1Joint dynamic causal modeling and biophysics modeling to enable multi-scale brain network function modeling
Publication Date: 2025.07.09 THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE LELAND STANFORD JUNIOR UNIV
  • EP4038550B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4038550B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4038550B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Methods, systems, and devices, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium are provided for combined dynamic causal modeling and biophysics modeling of brain function. In particular, the disclosed methods of modeling brain function can be used to integrate brain function measurements by two or more methods, such as functional neuroimaging and electrophysiology. Sequential model fitting is used to improve modeling accuracy to generate a more comprehensive model of brain neuronal circuitry.