Dendritic Spines: Modeling, Function and Properties

Dendritic spine is a small membranous protrusion from the dendrite of a neuron that takes input from a single axon at the synapse. It serves as a storage site for synaptic strength and it aids in the transmission of electrical signals to the neuron's cell body. In addition to providing an anatomical substrate for synaptic transmission and memory storage, dendritic spines can also increase the number of probable contacts between neurons. Dendritic spines are also hypothesized to have electrical properties, which are studied through the development of modeling techniques. A few of such models are Baer and Rinzel's continuum model, and spike-diffuse-spike model. Abnormalities within the spines can result in cognitive disorders such as ADHD, Alzheimer's disease, autism and intellectual disability. This book is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth knowledge about the modeling, function and properties of dendritic spines. It is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area as well as for experts.