Modeling of spatial intracellular signaling events in neurons

Abstract

A neuron is able to seamlessly respond to a number of signals, in a timely and specific manner. This process, of integrating multiple inputs, relays on the orchestration of intracellular events by signaling networks. The inherent complexity of signaling networks has made computational modeling a useful approach to understand their underlying regulatory principles. Recent advances in imaging techniques have highlighted the nonhomogeneous nature of intracellular signaling and its significant contribution to the maintenance of signal specificity. Computational modeling can provide mechanistic insight into the origins of these inhomogeneous distributions of signaling components and their role in the integrative capabilities of the neuron.