Efficient simulations of stretch growth axon based on improved HH model

According to recent studies, synaptic connections by axons formed can resist stronger mechanical stresses. A large number of nerve tissues with regular growth can be achieved quickly by appropriately managing the pulling pace and force. However, currently there are few studies on the physiological characteristics of stretching growth axons. Until now, there is no mature technology for determining whether the axons can normally transmit neural signals following continuous mechanical stimulation. In this paper, an improved HH model was proposed to investigate the effect of mechanical stimuli on stretched axons and synapses.

First, we add the link between membrane capacitance and diameter to the standard HH model and the fundamental concept of capacitance. Then, unmyelinated stretch growth axons with different lengths were simulated in this model.

After mechanical pulling stimulation, the improved model successfully replicated the generation and propagation of action potentials in several different axon segments. This increase in length accompanying an increase in diameter due to stretch growth. When the stretching growth axon was stimulated again by traction, the membrane capacitance rapidly increased from the constant value and the inward current was large enough to depolarize the membrane and produce an action potential. After stretching, nerve fibers could still receive signals sent by other neuron cells and complete the signal transmission.

This proposed research can help to optimize stretching axon culture conditions, avoid mechanical force damage to nerve tissue, and achieve a more effective nerve tissue culture process.