Interacting slow and fast dynamics in precise spiking-bursting neurons

Abstract

We have explored the role of the interaction of slow and fast intracellular dynamics in generating precise spiking-bursting activity in a model of the heartbeat central pattern generator of the leech. In particular we study the effect of calcium-dependent currents on the neural signatures generated in the circuit. These neural signatures are cell-specific interspike intervals in the spiking-bursting activity of each neuron. Our results show that the slow dynamics of intracelullar calcium concentration can regulate the precision and shape of the neural signatures. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2005.