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Computational Approaches to Vestibular ResearchThe Biocomputation Center at NASA Ames Research Center is dedicated to a union between computational, experimental and theoretical approaches to the study of neuroscience and of life sciences in general. The current emphasis is on computer reconstruction and visualization of vestibular macular architecture in three-dimensions (3-D), and on mathematical modeling and computer simulation of neural activity in the functioning system. Our methods are being used to interpret the influence of spaceflight on mammalian vestibular maculas in a model system, that of the adult Sprague-Dawley rat. More than twenty 3-D reconstructions of type I and type II hair cells and their afferents have been completed by digitization of contours traced from serial sections photographed in a transmission electron microscope. This labor-intensive method has now been replace d by a semiautomated method developed in the Biocomputation Center in which conventional photography is eliminated. All viewing, storage and manipulation of original data is done using Silicon Graphics workstations. Recent improvements to the software include a new mesh generation method for connecting contours. This method will permit the investigator to describe any surface, regardless of complexity, including highly branched structures such as are routinely found in neurons. This same mesh can be used for 3-D, finite volume simulation of synapse activation and voltage spread on neuronal surfaces visualized via the reconstruction process. These simulations help the investigator interpret the relationship between neuroarchitecture and physiology, and are of assistance in determining which experiments will best test theoretical interpretations. Data are also used to develop abstract, 3-D models that dynamically display neuronal activity ongoing in the system. Finally, the same data can be used to visualize the neural tissue in a virtual environment. Our exhibit will depict capabilities of our computational approaches and some of our findings from their application. For example, our research has demonstrated that maculas of adult mammals retain the property of synaptic plasticity. Ribbon synapses increase numerically and undergo changes in type and distribution (p<0.0001) in type II hair cells after exposure to microgravity for as few as nine days. The finding of macular synaptic plasticity is pertinent to the clinic, and may help explain some. balance disorders in humans. The software used in our investigations will be demonstrated for those interested in applying it in their own research.
Document ID
20010117727
Acquisition Source
Ames Research Center
Document Type
Preprint (Draft being sent to journal)
Authors
Ross, Muriel D.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA United States)
Wade, Charles E.
Date Acquired
August 20, 2013
Publication Date
April 4, 1994
Subject Category
Aerospace Medicine
Meeting Information
Meeting: American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation
Country: United States
Start Date: September 18, 1994
End Date: September 21, 1994
Sponsors: American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation
Funding Number(s)
PROJECT: RTOP 199-16-12-14
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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