The provided code snippet is part of a computational neuroscience model focused on simulating aspects of neuronal activity. The key biological elements relevant to the provided code are summarized below:
Neuron Model: The code references a specific neuron model 2015_12_09_C1, likely representing a morphologically and biophysically detailed model of a real neuron. This neuron model becomes the computational substrate to simulate neuronal dynamics.
Membrane Potential (v): The command addgraph("soma.v(0.5)",-100,30) suggests the focus is on tracking the membrane potential at the middle of the soma (or cell body) of the neuron. The membrane potential is a fundamental property of neurons, representing the electrical potential difference across the neuronal membrane, critical for the generation and propagation of action potentials.
Temperature (celsius=35): The setting of the celsius variable to 35°C indicates that the simulation is conducted at a physiological temperature, suggesting the model is meant to replicate biological conditions as closely as possible.
Simulation Time (tstop=6000, dt=0.01): The total simulation time (tstop) is 6000 ms (i.e., 6 seconds), with a time step (dt) of 0.01 ms, allowing for high temporal resolution. Fine temporal resolution is crucial for capturing the dynamics of rapid neuronal processes, such as action potential generation.
Ion Channels and Gating Variables: Although specifics are not visible in the provided code, the mention of variable_NA and other variable_G likely refers to functions “variable_NA” that might characterize or manipulate variables related to sodium ion channel conductance, which is integral to the action potential mechanism in neurons.
Graphical Representation of Dynamics: The creation and visualization of graphs (e.g., membrane potential versus time) assist in analyzing the neuronal electrical behavior, such as the occurrence of action potentials or other voltage changes over time.
Initial Conditions (v_init=-70): The initial membrane potential is set to -70 mV, corresponding to a typical resting membrane potential of neurons, at which the neuron is poised to respond to further stimulation.
Module Loading: The loading of additional .hoc files like subiter.hoc, freq.hoc, and Soma_analysis.hoc suggests that the model incorporates additional detailed procedures or parameters related to cellular electrophysiology and possibly data analysis or post-simulation calculations relevant to the neuron's function.
In summary, the code models neuronal electrical activity, focusing on simulating and analyzing neuronal membrane potential under physiological conditions, a central element to understanding neuronal excitability and synaptic communication in the brain. The simulation environment and parameters suggest a close alignment with biological realism, capturing temporal and voltage dynamics that are crucial in understanding cellular and circuit-level behavior in neuroscience.