Authors: Koene, Randal¹; Tijms, Betty¹; Hees, Peter¹; Postma, Frank¹; Ridder, Alexander¹; Ramakers, Ger²; Pelt, Jaap¹; Ooyen, Arjen³

Source: Neuroinformatics, Volume 7, Number 3, September 2009 , pp. 195-210(16)

Publisher: Humana Press

Abstract:

We present a simulation framework, called NETMORPH, for the developmental generation of 3D large-scale neuronal networks with realistic neuron morphologies. In NETMORPH, neuronal morphogenesis is simulated from the perspective of the individual growth cone. For each growth cone in a growing axonal or dendritic tree, its actions of elongation, branching and turning are described in a stochastic, phenomenological manner. In this way, neurons with realistic axonal and dendritic morphologies, including neurite curvature, can be generated. Synapses are formed as neurons grow out and axonal and dendritic branches come in close proximity of each other. NETMORPH is a flexible tool that can be applied to a wide variety of research questions regarding morphology and connectivity. Research applications include studying the complex relationship between neuronal morphology and global patterns of synaptic connectivity. Possible future developments of NETMORPH are discussed.

Keywords: Neurite outgrowth; Growth model; Growth cone; Morphogenesis; Synaptic connectivity; Neural networks; Neural development

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s12021-009-9052-3

Affiliations: 1: Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081, HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands, 2: Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Meibergdreef 47, 1105, BA, Amsterdam, the Netherlands, 3: Department of Integrative Neurophysiology, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, VU University Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081, HV, Amsterdam, the Netherlands, Email: arjen.van.ooyen@cncr.vu.nl

Publication date: 2009-09-01

Related content

• In this: publication
• By this: publisher
• In this Subject: Medical Informatics ,  Neurology & Psychiatry
• By this author: Koene, Randal ;  Tijms, Betty ;  Hees, Peter ;  Postma, Frank ;  Ridder, Alexander ;  Ramakers, Ger ;  Pelt, Jaap ;  Ooyen, Arjen

Website © Publishing Technology. Article copyright remains with the publisher, society or author(s) as specified within the article.

• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Information for advertisers