Qualitative Information Processing in Tripartite Synapses: A Hypothetical Model

A new model of synaptic information processing is proposed. It focuses on tripartite synapses and the glial network, called syncytium. A tripartite synapse consists not only of the presynapse and postsynapse as neuronal components, but also of the glial components the astrocyte and its syncytium. It is hypothesized that in the astrocytic syncytium, intentional programs may be generated that determine the expression of astrocytic receptors. Intentional programing is formalized as so-called negative language, which can be transformed into a place structure integrated as astrocytic receptors. Based on the formalism of tritogrammatics, astrocytic receptors embody places of the same or different qualities for the occupancy with cognate neurotransmitters. Dependent on the pattern of astrocytic receptors, astrocytes may be capable of qualitatively modifying synaptic information processing. Although the model presented is experimentally supported, there are methodical limits in experimental biological brain research. Hence, the technical implementation may represent a real and promising alternative.

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