Gap junctions and synchronization clusters in the Thalamic Reticular Nuclei

TL;DR

This study uses a computational model to investigate how the size, strength, and distribution of gap junction clusters influence synchronization patterns in the Thalamic Reticular Nuclei, considering the modulation by background inhibition.

Contribution

It introduces a realistic connectivity scheme in a computational model to analyze the effects of gap junction organization on TRN synchronization.

Findings

Gap junction clustering affects synchronization patterns.

Background inhibition modulates gap junction effects.

Connectivity architecture influences TRN activity.

Abstract

The Thalamic Reticular Nuclei (TRN) mediate processes like attentional modulation, sensory gating and sleep spindles. The GABAergic inter neurons in the TRN are know to exhibit widespread synchronized activity patterns. One known contribution to shaping synchronization and clustering patterns in the TRN is coming from the presence of gap junctions. These are organized in specific connectivity architectures, that have been identified empirically through dye and electrical coupling studies. Our study uses a computational model in conjunction to implement realistic connectivity schemes in a small network. We explored the potential effects of the size, strength and distribution of gap junctional clusters on the synchronization patterns in TRN, and how these effects are modulated by other factors, such as the level of background inhibition.