A computer based model for realistic simulations of neural networks. I. The single neuron and synaptic interaction.
The use of computer simulations as a neurophysiological tool creates new possibilities to understand complex systems and to test whether a given model can explain experimental findings. Simulations, however, require a detailed specification of the model, including the nerve cell action potential and synaptic transmission. We describe a neuron model of intermediate complexity, with a small number of compartments representing the soma and the dendritic tree, and equipped with Na+, K+, Ca2+, and Ca2+ dependent K+ channels. Conductance changes in the different compartments are used to model conventional excitatory and inhibitory synaptic interactions. Voltage dependent NMDA-receptor channels are also included, and influence both the electrical conductance and the inflow of Ca2+ ions. This neuron model has been designed for the analysis of neural networks and specifically for the simulation of the network generating locomotion in a simple vertebrate, the lamprey. By assigning experimentally established properties to the simulated cells and their synapses, it has been possible to verify the sufficiency of these properties to account for a number of experimental findings of the network in operation. The model is, however, sufficiently general to be useful for realistic simulation also of other neural systems.
Ekeberg
O
O
Department of Numerical Analysis and Computing Science, Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden.
Wallén
P
P
Lansner
A
A
Tråvén
H
H
Brodin
L
L
Grillner
S
S
D003198:Computer Simulation; D009415:Nerve Net; D009474:Neurons / Q000502:physiology*; D013569:Synapses / Q000378:metabolism*