The subdirectory 'matlab' contains MATLAB scripts (The Mathworks, USA) that can be used to reproduce the panels of Figures 4-5. This directory contains files to reproduce sample computer simulations presented in the 2011 paper authored by Meredith, R., Testa-Silva, G., Loebel, A., Giugliano, M., de Kock, C.; Mansvelder, H. "Hyperconnectivity and slow synapses in prefrontal cortex of a model for mental retardation and autism". ABSTRACT "... We propose that these findings are tightly linked: using a network model, we show that slower synapses are essential to counterbalance hyperconnectivity in order to maintain a dynamic range of excitatory activity. However, the slow synaptic time constants induce decreased responsiveness to low frequency stimulation, which may explain deficits in integration and information processing in attentional neuronal networks in neurodevelopmental disorders."
Model Type: Realistic Network; Synapse; Neural mass
Region(s) or Organism(s): Neocortex; Prefrontal cortex (PFC)
Cell Type(s): Neocortex L5/6 pyramidal GLU cell
Genes: FMR1 FMRP
Model Concept(s): Activity Patterns; Oscillations; Short-term Synaptic Plasticity; Attractor Neural Network
Simulation Environment: MATLAB
Implementer(s): Giugliano, Michele [mgiugliano at gmail.com]; Loebel, Alex [alex.loebel at gmail.com]
References:
Testa-Silva G et al. (2012). Hyperconnectivity and slow synapses during early development of medial prefrontal cortex in a mouse model for mental retardation and autism. Cerebral cortex (New York, N.Y. : 1991). 22 [PubMed]