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Contribution of the Na+/K+ Pump to Rhythmic Bursting, Explored with Modeling and Dynamic Clamp Analyses
Published on: May 9, 2021
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Dynamics Analysis of Firing Patterns in Pre-Bötzinger Complex Neurons Model
Quan Yuan1, Jieqiong Xu1, Huiying Chen1
1School of Mathematics and Information Science, Guangxi University, Guangxi, China.
Frontiers in Computational Neuroscience
|July 2, 2021
Summary
The pre-Bötzinger complex (PBC) generates respiratory rhythm via specific neuron bursting mechanisms. This study explores how the calcium-activated non-specific cation current (I_CAN) influences these patterns in PBC inspiratory neurons.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Computational Biology
- Respiratory Physiology
Background:
- The pre-Bötzinger complex (PBC) is crucial for generating mammalian respiratory rhythm.
- Neuronal bursting mechanisms in the PBC are key to understanding respiratory control.
- A significant bursting mechanism involves the calcium-activated non-specific cation current (I_CAN).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of I_CAN and stimulus current (I_app) on PBC inspiratory neuron firing patterns.
- To elucidate the underlying mechanisms of respiratory rhythm generation in the PBC.
Main Methods:
- Simplified single-compartment model of PBC inspiratory neurons.
- Analysis using stability theory and bifurcation analysis.
- Application of fast-slow decomposition technology and numerical simulations.
Main Results:
- Stimulation with varying somatic currents (I_app) induced diverse mixed bursting patterns in the model.
- The interplay between I_CAN and I_app significantly shapes neuronal firing behavior.
- Identified distinct firing patterns resulting from specific current manipulations.
Conclusions:
- The calcium-activated non-specific cation current (I_CAN) plays a vital role in shaping PBC neuron firing patterns.
- Understanding these ionic mechanisms provides insights into respiratory rhythm generation.
- This research contributes to a deeper comprehension of neural control of breathing.
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