A multi-component model of depression at the calyx of Held

Abstract

An average-response model of depression at the calyx of Held, a giant glutamatergic synapse in the mammalian auditory pathway, is presented. The model is fit to experimentally recorded EPSC amplitudes resulting from 10 to 100 Hz presynaptic stimulation for 1 s. This data exhibits a strong depression of the EPSC amplitude. The model best fits the time course and magnitude of depression when significant postsynaptic receptor desensitisation and vesicle replenishment from a small, depleting reserve pool were included. © 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.