This model simulates the afferent neural encoding in response to mechanical colorectal stretching. A custom-built mechano-sensitive ion channel, gated by membrane tension induced by circumferential colorectal stretch, is incorporated. A lumped parametric model has been developed to calculate membrane tension from the overall colorectal stretch.
Experimental motivation: This model was developed to predict and validate the experimental studies reported in the paper. It systematically investigates the role of NaV1.6 in afferent neural encoding using subtype-selective sodium channel blockers. The model simulation recapitulates the experimental results on the necessary role of NaV1.6 in afferent neural encoding to colorectal stretch.
Model Type: Axon
Region(s) or Organism(s): Mouse
Cell Type(s): Dorsal Root Ganglion (DRG) cell
Currents: I Potassium; I Sodium
Receptors: Mechanoreceptors
Genes: Nav1.6 SCN8A; Nav1.7 SCN9A; Nav1.8 SCN10A; Nav1.9 SCN11A SCN12A
Transmitters:
Model Concept(s): Action Potentials
Simulation Environment: MATLAB; NEURON
References:
Feng B, Zhu Y, La JH, Wills ZP, Gebhart GF. (2015). Experimental and computational evidence for an essential role of NaV1.6 in spike initiation at stretch-sensitive colorectal afferent endings. Journal of neurophysiology. 113 [PubMed]