Maintaining the stability of neural function: a homeostatic hypothesis

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cellular Biology
• Systems Biology

Background:

• Neural excitability is crucial for nervous system function.
• Neurons face constant challenges that can disrupt excitability, such as changes in cell size, innervation, and synaptic input.
• Neurons possess mechanisms to compensate for these perturbations and maintain stable function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evidence for homeostatic regulatory systems controlling neural excitability.
• To discuss a model of neural homeostasis involving cellular monitors and signaling pathways.

Main Methods:

• Review of experimental data demonstrating neuronal compensation mechanisms.
• Analysis of proposed models for neural homeostasis.

Main Results:

• Neurons employ diverse mechanisms to maintain excitability, including adjustments in synaptic size, synaptic strength, and ion channel function.
• Evidence supports the existence of homeostatic regulatory systems in the nervous system.
• A model suggests cellular monitors integrate information on cell activity, size, and innervation to regulate synaptic and ion channel function.

Conclusions:

• Neural homeostasis is essential for proper nervous system function.
• Intracellular and intercellular signaling play key roles in transducing information to regulate neural excitability.
• The discussed model provides a framework for understanding how neurons maintain stable function despite perturbations.