Computational model of the cAMP-mediated sensory response and calcium-dependent adaptation in vertebrate olfactory receptor neurons

Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2005 Jul 26;102(30):10415-20. doi: 10.1073/pnas.0504099102. Epub 2005 Jul 18.

Abstract

We develop a mechanistic mathematical model of the G-protein coupled signaling pathway responsible for generating current responses in frog olfactory receptor neurons. The model incorporates descriptions of ligand-receptor interaction, intracellular transduction events involving the second messenger cAMP, effector ion-channel activity, and calcium-mediated feedback steps. We parameterized the model with respect to suction pipette current recordings from single cells stimulated with multiple odor concentrations. The proposed model accurately predicts the receptor-current response of the neuron to brief and prolonged odorant exposure and is able to produce the adaptation observed under repeated or sustained stimulation.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Physiological*
  • Animals
  • Calcium / metabolism
  • Cyclic AMP / metabolism
  • GTP-Binding Proteins / metabolism
  • Ion Channels / physiology
  • Models, Biological*
  • Olfactory Receptor Neurons / metabolism*
  • Olfactory Receptor Neurons / physiology
  • Signal Transduction / physiology*
  • Smell / physiology*
  • Vertebrates / physiology*

Substances

  • Ion Channels
  • Cyclic AMP
  • GTP-Binding Proteins
  • Calcium