Simulation of the release and diffusion of neurotransmitters in neuronal synapses: Analysis and modelling

Abstract

Chemical synaptic transmisssion involves the release of a neurotransmitter that diffuses in the extracellular space and interacts with specific receptors located on the postsynaptic membrane. Computer simulation approaches provide fundamental tools for exploring various aspects of the synaptic transmission under different conditions. In particular, Monte Carlo methods can track the stochastic movements of neurotransmitter molecules and their interactions with other discrete molecules, the receptors. We have developed synaptic models that had a simple geometry as far as shape is concerned, but had a variable set of parameters that specified the dimensions of the structures involved in the synaptic junction. We have analyzed simulations based on these idealized models of excitatory synapses where AMPA receptors are present and the neurotransmitter involved is glutamate.