We discovered a low-threshold, slowly inactivating K+ current, containing Kv1.2 alpha subunits, in axon initial segment, playing a key role in the modulation of spike threshold and spike duration as well as the spike timing in prefrontal cortex layer V pyramidal cell of ferrets and rats. A kd.mod file implements this D current and put it in the axonal model: Neuron_Dcurrent.hoc. Run the model to see the gradual modulation effect over seconds on spike shape.
Model Type: Neuron or other electrically excitable cell; Axon
Region(s) or Organism(s): Neocortex
Cell Type(s): Neocortex L5/6 pyramidal GLU cell; Neocortex L2/3 pyramidal GLU cell
Currents: I Na,t; I K; I h; I Potassium
Genes: Kv1.2 KCNA2
Model Concept(s): Action Potential Initiation; Action Potentials
Simulation Environment: NEURON
References:
Shu Y, Yu Y, Yang J, McCormick DA. (2007). Selective control of cortical axonal spikes by a slowly inactivating K+ current. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. 104 [PubMed]