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- Simulating Morphogenesis in Dendritic Trees
- Why do neurons look like trees? This project explores the biophysical constraints on "arborization"—how a neuron grows its branches to maximize input while minimizing metabolic cost.
- The Task: Implement a Reaction-Diffusion algorithm or a Lindenmayer system (L-system) that "grows" a 3D neuron in a virtual space filled with chemical gradients (neurotrophins).
- Heavy Programming Focus: 3D graphics and spatial data structures. You’ll need to manage collision detection (so branches don't overlap) and use Octrees to optimize the search for nearby chemical signals.
- The Biophysics: Use the Cable Equation to test the electrical efficiency of your "grown" neurons. Does a prettier tree result in better signal propagation?
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