  Neurostimulation using weak electric fields has generated excitement in
recent years due to its potential as a medical intervention. However, study of
this stimulation modality has been hampered by inconsistent results and large
variability within and between studies. In order to begin addressing this
variability we need to properly characterise the impact of the current on the
underlying neuron populations. To develop and test a computational model
capable of capturing the impact of electric field stimulation on networks of
neurons. We construct a cortical tissue model with distinct layers and explicit
neuron morphologies. We then apply a model of electrical stimulation and carry
out multiple test case simulations. The cortical slice model is compared to
experimental literature and shown to capture the main features of the
electrophysiological response to stimulation. Namely, the model showed 1) a
similar level of depolarisation in individual pyramidal neurons, 2)
acceleration of intrinsic oscillations, and 3) retention of the spatial profile
of oscillations in different layers. We then apply alternative electric fields
to demonstrate how the model can capture differences in neuronal responses to
the electric field. We demonstrate that the tissue response is dependent on
layer depth, the angle of the apical dendrite relative to the field, and
stimulation strength. We present publicly available computational modelling
software that predicts the neuron network population response to electric field
stimulation.
