Explosive synchronization driven by repulsive higher-order interactions in coupled neurons

Neuron synchronization plays a crucial role in brain dynamics. Although considerable progress has been made in the understanding of synchronization, the study in neuronal models within higher-order networks remains insufficiently understood. This study explores the impact of repulsive higher-order interactions in a weighted network of coupled Huber-Braun (HB) neurons, focusing on how these interactions influence the dynamics of synchronization and firing patterns. Our numerical simulations reveal that repulsive higher-order interactions can induce irreversible explosive transitions in synchronization, characterized by sudden and abrupt shifts in the network’s collective state. Additionally, with bifurcation diagrams and phase portraits, we also identify irreversible transitions in firing patterns, highlighting the presence of multistability within the system. Coexistence between dynamics is observed, such as period-1 and period-2 bursting, period-3 bursting and chaotic dynamics. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how higher-order interactions affect neuronal dynamics, offering insights into the mechanisms behind explosive synchronization and its implications for neural network behavior.