Biophysical modelling of memory and learning by neuroinformatics and systems biology

Learning and memory mechanisms are currently studied at molecular level and theoretical approaches need to be extended by precise and detailed biophysical models for the comprehension of the existing results and for design of new experiments. Synaptic plasticity is, at least partially, based on the molecular transition between a synaptic state of permanent (long-term) potentiation (LTP) and depression (long-term depression, LTD). Phosphorylation and dephosphorylation of receptors mediating synaptic transmission is the major mechanisms for LTP/LTD induction and regulation. This knowledge has fuelled new theoretical and experimental investigations, mainly focused on the stability versus meta-stability properties as a function of the involved enzymes.