Multi-contact synapses for stable networks: a spike-timing dependent model of dendritic spine plasticity and turnover

Understand

Excitatory synaptic connections in the adult neocortex consist of multiple synaptic contacts, almost exclusively formed on dendritic spines.

• Changes of dendritic spine shape and volume, a correlate of synaptic strength, can be tracked in vivo for weeks.
• Here, we present a combined model of spike-timing dependent dendritic spine plasticity and turnover that explains the steady state multi-contact configuration of synapses in adult neocortical networks.
• In this model, many presynaptic neurons compete to make strong synaptic connections onto postsynaptic neurons, while the synaptic contacts comprising each connection cooperate via postsynaptic firing.