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Analyzing the Size, Shape, and Directionality of Networks of Coupled Astrocytes
Published on: October 4, 2018
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Information transmission in a neuron-astrocyte coupled model.
Jun Tang1, Jin-Ming Luo, Jun Ma
1College of Science, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou, China.
Plos One
|December 7, 2013
Summary
A new hybrid model reveals that astrocytes and mGluRs facilitate simultaneous bursting-like spikes (BLSs) during neuron-to-neuron information transfer. This astrocyte influence is independent of transmission delay and information distortion caused by low coupling strength.
Area of Science:
- Computational neuroscience
- Astrophysics
- Biophysics
Background:
- Neuronal communication involves complex interactions.
- Astrocytes play a modulatory role in synaptic transmission.
- Calcium signaling is crucial for neuronal function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate information transmission between two neurons coupled via an astrocyte.
- To analyze the occurrence of bursting-like spikes (BLSs) during neuronal communication.
- To explore the influence of astrocytes and mGluRs on BLSs and signal fidelity.
Main Methods:
- Development of a hybrid computational model integrating the Hodgkin-Huxley neuronal model and the Li-Rinzel calcium model.
- Numerical simulations to study information transfer between two connected neurons (N1 and N2) with an intervening astrocyte.
- Analysis of parameters influencing BLS occurrence, transmission delay (τ), and signal distortion.
Main Results:
- Simultaneous BLSs were observed in both neurons during signal transfer from N1 to N2.
- The presence of an astrocyte and higher mGluR expression promoted BLSs, independent of parameter sensitivity.
- Transmission delay (τ) was largely unaffected by astrocyte presence.
- Low coupling strength led to information distortion, also independent of astrocyte influence.
Conclusions:
- Astrocytes and mGluRs significantly modulate neuronal firing patterns, promoting synchronized BLSs during information transfer.
- Neuronal communication involves inherent time delays and potential for distortion, with limited modulation by astrocytes in this model.
- The hybrid model provides insights into astrocyte-neuron interactions and information processing in neural networks.
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