Inhibitory and excitatory networks balance cell coupling in the suprachiasmatic nucleus: A modeling approach

Mar 15, 2016Journal of theoretical biology

How Inhibitory and Excitatory Networks Balance Cell Communication in the Body’s Biological Clock

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Abstract

A peak firing rate of about 7Hz was achieved for optimal network synchrony in the suprachiasmatic nucleus.

Neuronal coupling is important for the formation of circadian rhythms in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN).
Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) is essential for synchronizing neuron oscillations, while the role of GABA remains unclear despite its high concentration in the SCN.
Mathematical modeling explored the interplay between GABA and VIP on networks of SCN neurons.
Adjustments in the release of GABA and VIP can optimize network rhythm amplitude and period while maintaining synchrony.
Simulations indicated that GABA networks may decrease the time needed for the SCN model to re-synchronize after phase shifts in light-dark cycles.
VIP and GABA may help balance cell coupling in the SCN, promoting synchronization among diverse oscillators.

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Neuronal coupling contributes to circadian rhythms formation in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). While the neurotransmitter vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) is considered essential for synchronizing the oscillations of individual neurons, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) does not have a clear functional role despite being highly concentrated in the SCN. While most studies have examined the role of either GABA or VIP, our mathematical modeling approach explored their interplay on networks of SCN neurons. Tuning the parameters that control the release of GABA and VIP enabled us to optimize network synchrony, which was achieved at a peak firing rate during the subjective day of about 7Hz. Furthermore, VIP and GABA modulation could adjust network rhythm amplitude and period without sacrificing synchrony. We also performed simulations of SCN networks to phase shifts during 12h:12h light-dark cycles and showed that GABA networks reduced the average time for the SCN model to re-synchronize. We hypothesized that VIP and GABA balance cell coupling in the SCN to promote synchronization of heterogeneous oscillators while allowing flexibility for adjustment to environmental changes.

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Inhibitory and excitatory networks balance cell coupling in the suprachiasmatic nucleus: A modeling approach

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