MetaNeuron
is a computer program that models the basic electrical properties of neurons
and axons. The program is intended for the beginning neuroscience student
and requires no prior experience with computer simulations.
Different aspects of neuronal behavior are highlighted in the five lessons presented in MetaNeuron. The first two lessons, Membrane Potential and Membrane Time Constant, illustrate the passive properties of neuronal membranes. The third and fourth lessons, Axon Action Potential and Axon Voltage Clamp, demonstrate how voltage- and time-dependent ionic conductances result in the generation of the action potential in the axon. The fifth lesson, Synaptic Potential and Current, illustrates how synaptic potentials are generated through the activation of ionotropic neurotransmitter receptors.
To
download the MetaNeuron program for a PC (Windows) computer, click on
the PC Version link and save to a local directory. For a Macintosh
computer, click on the Mac Version link. Unstuff the file (this
may occur automatically) and save to the desktop or to a local directory.
When running the Mac version, the program window should be maximized after
opening.
PC VERSION
MAC VERSION