In Silico Study of Single Synapse Dynamics Using a Three-State Kinetic Model

In this study, we validate a single synapse neural mass model based on a 3-state kinetic framework. Our model implements the ligandgated neurotransmitter receptors mediated by excitatory alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic-acid (AMPA) and N-methyl-Daspartate (NMDA), and inhibitory gamma-amino-butyric acid subtype A (GABAA) synapses. Our results show the 3-state model equipped with desensitization state can assay the synaptic transmission processes recorded in both in vivo and in silico studies. Overall, we present a computationally light, single synapse kinetic model that can adapt as new molecular studies evolve. The fundamental behavioural study presented here also lays the foundation for building larger in silico models, that are computationally efficient and capable of replicating physiological and experimental observations as well as make testable predictions.