Density is Density - On the Relation Between Quantity of T-Type Ca2+ Channels and Neuronal Electrical Behavior

The electroresponsiveness fingerprint of a neuron reflects the types and distributions of the ionic channels that are embedded in the neuronal membrane as well as its morphology. Theoretical analysis shows that subtle changes in the density of channels can contribute substantially to the electroresponsive fingerprints of neurons. We have confirmed these predictions, using the dynamic clamp approach to emulate changes in channels' densities in neurons from the inferior olive. We demonstrate how the density of T-type channels determines the behavioral destiny of neurons. We argue that regulation of channel densities could be an efficient mechanism for controlling the electrical activity of single cells, as well as the output of neuronal networks.