The model demonstrates how signal amplification with NMDARs depends on the synaptic environment. When direction selectivity (DS) detection is mediated by DS inhibition, NMDARs multiply other synaptic conductances. In the case of DS tuned excitation, NMDARs contribute additively.
Model Type: Dendrite; Neuron or other electrically excitable cell; Realistic Network; Synapse
Cell Type(s): Retina ganglion GLU cell
Receptors: AMPA; NMDA; GabaA; Nicotinic
Transmitters: Glutamate; Acetylcholine; Gaba
Model Concept(s): Direction Selectivity; Synaptic Integration; Vision
Simulation Environment: NEURON
Implementer(s): Polsky, Alon [alonpol at tx.technion.ac.il]
References:
Poleg-Polsky A, Diamond JS. (2016). NMDA Receptors Multiplicatively Scale Visual Signals and Enhance Directional Motion Discrimination in Retinal Ganglion Cells. Neuron 89 [PubMed]