Diffusive Hebbian model for orientation map formation

The distribution of orientation selective cells over the cortical surface is captured in the orientation map. In the existing models on orientation map formation, the lateral connectivity in the cortex is modelled by Mexican hat intra-cortical interaction. The Mexican hat intra-cortical interaction requires long range interaction to be present during early period of development. We show that near neighbour diffusive Hebbian learning mechanism along with self-inhibition in the cells is sufficient for the formation of an orientation map. Long range intra-cortical connectivity is not critical for formation of orientation maps