Ion channels

…We built a new toolbox for simulation and inference in neuroscience, Jaxley, which allows to parallelize simulations on (multiple) GPUs and to compute the gradient of simulations with respect to parameters (panel b, c). We use

The functioning of a synapse depends on its accessibility to proteins and, thus, on the localization of protein sources along the dendrite (Westenbroek 2009, Vacher et al. 2008). Therefore, the behaviour of the synapse highly depends on the availability of proteins and ion channels and any perturbation in the localization and availability of these components would lead to a dysfunction of the synapse. Hence, understanding the localization and distribution of ion channels and proteins in the dendrite in relation to the synapse is crucial. Using super-resolution microscopy, Helm et al., 2021 der

…have identified gene expression patterns that classify these sub-types by different ion channels including NaV1.7, NaV1.8, NaV1.9, TRPV1, TRPA1, P2X3, HCN and a number of others that have been implicated in pain. In this study, we have identified a method to rapidly generate a novel TRPA1+ human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived sensor

The patch-clamp technique allows us to eavesdrop the gating behavior of individual ion channels with unprecedented temporal resolution. The recorded signals arise from conformational changes of the protein or protein complex forming the ion channels as they make rapid transitions between conducting and non-conducting states. However, unambiguous analysis of single-channel datasets is challenging given the inadvertently low signal-to-noise ratio as well as signal distortions caused by low-pass filtering and limited recording bandwidth. Ion channel kinetics are typically described using hidden-M

Neurons rely on the interplay between dendritic morphology and ion channels to transform synaptic inputs into a sequence of somatic spikes. Detailed biophysical models with active dendrites have been instrumental for exploring this interaction. However, such models can be challenging to understand and validate due to the large number of parameters involved. In this work, we introduce DendroTweaks — a framework designed to illuminate how morpho-electric properties map to dendritic events, and how these dendritic events shape neuronal output. Through its graphical interface, users can access the

…The early phase after TBI induction triggers numerous molecular cascades to regulate adaptive processes and cortical network activity. Kinases play a particularly prominent role in modifying peptide substrates, which include ion channels, receptors, transcription factors and inflammatory mediators. This project aimed to better understand the post-injury serine/threonine kinome; 1) Which kinases conduct phosphorylation-induced alterations of target peptides following un

Mutations within ion channels can cause functional alterations, including either loss or gain of function. Specific activation of the TRPA1 channel has been shown to be sufficient to trigger pain in humans [Heber et al, 2019]. The dbSNP database records five missense single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the TRPA1 gene - R3C, R58T, E179K, K186N, and H1018R, with the second most frequent variant exceeding 10% in the general population. This study aimed to compare these genetic variants concerning their impact on established modes of activation in contrast to the most common form of TRPA

Computational models play a key role in elucidating the complex behaviour of neurons. However, many of these models are tuned to the electrophysiological features of adult neurons, leaving a significant gap in the modelling of immature perinatal neurons. This study aims to bridge this gap by generating a population of computational models representing hippocampal neurons from primary hippocampal cultures of neonatal rat brains and comparing them with models of adult neurons in terms of variability in ion channels and electrophysiological behaviour. Using the TREES toolbox, we reconstructed the

…Bahia, there was a particular attraction to sensory nerves; the monitors of the worlds inside and outside of our bodies. In this talk, Dr. Bahia will outline her career path as a neuroscientist resulting in the title of Research Associate. She will also talk about the longest project she has participated in, 'exploring the role of ion channels in sensory nerves' (rupress.org/jgp/article/147/6/451/43495/The-exceptionally-high-reactivity-of-Cys-621-is)

…that govern the structure and function of neurons and neural circuits. We record from well-defined neurons, mainly in flies’ visual systems, to measure the molecular and cellular factors that determine relevant measures of performance, such as representational capacity, dynamic range and accuracy. We combine this empirical approach with modelling to see how the basic elements of neural systems (ion channels, second messengers systems, membranes, synapses, neurons, circuits and codes) combine to determine performance. We are investigating

Both computational and experimental results in single neurons and small networks demonstrate that very similar network function can result from quite disparate sets of neuronal and network parameters. Using the crustacean stomatogastric nervous system, we study the influence of these differences in underlying structure on differential resilience of individuals to a variety of environmental perturbations, including changes in temperature, pH, potassium concentration and neuromodulation. We show that neurons with many different kinds of ion channels can smoothly move through different mechanisms

Both computational and experimental results in single neurons and small networks demonstrate that very similar network function can result from quite disparate sets of neuronal and network parameters. Using the crustacean stomatogastric nervous system, we study the influence of these differences in underlying structure on differential resilience of individuals to a variety of environmental perturbations, including changes in temperature, pH, potassium concentration and neuromodulation. We show that neurons with many different kinds of ion channels can smoothly move through different mechanisms