Dynamical behaviors of a multifunctional neural circuit

Abstract Biological neurons exhibit a double-membrane structure and perform specialized functions. Replicating the double-membrane architecture in artificial neurons to mimic biological neuronal functions is a compelling research challenge. In this study, we propose a multifunctional neural circuit composed of two capacitors, two linear resistors, a phototube cell, a nonlinear resistor, and a memristor. The phototube and charge-controlled memristor serve as sensors for external light and electric field signals, respectively. By applying Kirchhoff’s and Helmholtz’s laws, we derive the system’s nonlinear dynamical equations and energy function. We further investigate the circuit’s dynamics using methods from nonlinear dynamics. Our results show that the circuit can exhibit both periodic and chaotic patterns under stimulation by external light and electric fields.