The magnitude and significance of Ca2+ domains for release of neurotransmitter

Bull Math Biol. 1994 Nov;56(6):1095-119. doi: 10.1007/BF02460288.

Abstract

It is now widely accepted that localized high concentrations of Ca2+ (Ca2+ domains) play a major role in controlling the time course of neurotransmitter release. In the present work we calculate the magnitude and the time course of Ca2+ domains that evolve in the vicinity of a Ca2+ channel and an adjacent release site. In the calculations we consider a accurately dimensioned Ca2+ channel. Moreover, the Ca2+ current is continuously adjusted with regard to the accumulated intracellular Ca2+ and, in addition, endogenous buffers are considered. The calculations, carried out by the software FIDAP, based on finite element method, show that the Ca2+ concentrations achieved near the release sites are significantly lower than claimed by other investigators. Furthermore, we present arguments indicating that the Ca2+ domains, regardless of their magnitude, do not play a role in controlling the time course of release of neurotransmitter.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Calcium / physiology*
  • Calcium Channels / physiology*
  • Computer Simulation*
  • Kinetics
  • Mathematics
  • Membrane Potentials
  • Models, Neurological*
  • Nerve Endings / physiology*
  • Neurotransmitter Agents / physiology*
  • Software

Substances

  • Calcium Channels
  • Neurotransmitter Agents
  • Calcium