36th Annual Student Research Conference
A Graphical Model For Studying Neurotransmitter Release
Carol A. Koob
Dr. Brett A. Berke, Faculty Mentor
Neurons transform electrical activity (action potentials) into a chemical form (neurotransmission) as they pass information to post-synaptic cells. While this transformation has been extensively studied, teaching and understanding the process of neurotransmitter release is challenging due to its complex molecular mechanisms. We have developed a publicly-available, graphical model to visualize and manipulate the neurotransmitter release process using NetLogo. This model incorporates all of the presynaptic release machinery (neurotransmitter-containing vesicles, calcium channels, a single active zone where neurotransmitters are exocytosed, and a T-bar where vesicles cluster before release). Students can alter a number of parameters (# vesicles, release probability, calcium influx, [transmitter]/vesicle, and action potential activity). Then, they can observe the effects on spontaneous and action potential-dependent release, as well as facilitation and depression. In addition, our model could help backfit physiological data after genetic or pharmacological manipulations, and it may be used to hypothesize synaptic roles for newly identified molecules.
Keywords: neurotransmission, modeling, synapse, NetLogo
Topic(s):Biology
Presentation Type: Oral Presentation
Session: 207-3
Location: MG 2001
Time: 10:45