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synapse model that reads voltage at other location

Posted: Tue Jun 25, 2019 6:35 am
by WWybo
I would like to do something a bit non-standard: I want to implement a synapse model that reads the membrane potential from a compartment other that the one it has been inserted into. Is this possible at all and if so, how would I implement such a mod file?

Re: synapse model that reads voltage at other location

Posted: Tue Jun 25, 2019 11:51 am
by ted
It is possible but the fact that some action A is does not mean that action A should be taken. Two practical criteria to keep in mind:
1. Try to avoid doing things that violate the laws of nature.
2. Whatever you do, be sure that you can explain why to those who will review your paper when it comes time to publish your research.

What you propose runs contrary to both of these criteria. Why? It could easily result in situations that violate conservation of energy (because the resulting synaptic current flow could be opposite to the local electrochemical gradient v - e where e is the synaptic reversal potential). Try explaining to a reviewer why that is reasonable.