Studying synchronization of neural oscillators through NMDA-AMPA receptor interactions

This study investigates how NMDA and AMPA receptors influence synchronization in neural oscillators modeled by coupled Morris–Lecar systems. By analyzing the interplay between receptor kinetics, synaptic coupling strengths, and voltage-dependent magnesium block, we identify the mechanisms that govern neural synchronization. We show that fast AMPAR kinetics yield perfect synchrony at substantially lower coupling than NMDARs, which produce only near-synchrony even when M g 2 + block is absent. To resolve subtle regimes, we pair a time-domain mean phase difference (MPD) with the phase-locking value (PLV) and overlay bifurcation continuations (LP/HB/PD), exposing boundaries that PLV alone can miss. Although NMDARs sustain prolonged conductance, their slow decay and M g 2 + dependence blur spike timing and limit precise locking. These results provide a quantitative, mechanism-based account of glutamatergic control of synchrony and suggest experimentally testable predictions relevant to coordination deficits in disorders such as schizophrenia.