Computer Simulations of Basic Neuronal Function

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Author:

Maggie Haag

Subject:

Science and Technology

Institution Name:

University of Alberta

Collection:

Association for Biology Laboratory Education (ABLE)

Grade Level:

Post-secondary

Abstract:

This laboratory utilizes two user-friendly computer programs from Neurosim (Biosoft, Cambridge, U.K.) that demonstrate various aspects of electrophysiological functions of neurons without sacrificing experimental animals. One program simulates passive conduction in a long length of axon while the second program simulates the Hodgkin-Huxley equations for the production of an action potential. While these programs allow students to try experimental manipulations that parallel those done in real electrophysiological experiments (changing ionic concentrations or voltage stimulus, effects of various drugs, etc.) it also allows them to change some of the inherent properties of neurons, such as membrane resistance and axon resistance. This enables one to see how neurons of different physical characteristics differ in their electrical behavior. This laboratory is suitable for students of varying backgrounds.

Course Type:

Learning Module

Languages:

English

Material Type:

Activities and Labs, Lesson Plans

Media Format:

Downloadable docs

Conditions of Use:

Custom Permissions
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the copyright owner. Use solely at one's own institution with no intent for profit is excluded from the preceding copyright restriction, unless otherwise noted on the copyright notice of the individual chapter in this volume. Proper credit to this publication must be included in your laboratory outline for each use; a sample citation is given [on the copyright page of each volume]. Upon obtaining permission or with the "sole use at one's own institution" exclusion, ABLE strongly encourages individuals to use the exercises in this proceedings volume in their teaching program.