Neuronell

Neuronell is a term encountered in theoretical and computational neuroscience to denote a small, modular subunit within a neuron that is imagined to perform localized processing of synaptic inputs. In this framework a neuron is conceptually partitioned into multiple neuronells, each corresponding to a spatially restricted region such as a dendritic branch or a distal axonal segment. A neuronell is assumed to contain a microdomain of ion channels, receptors, and intracellular signaling machinery.

In modeling terms, neuronells allow for more than one point of integrative computation within a single cell, with interactions among neuronells producing aggregate somatic or network signals. Depending on the level of detail, each neuronell can be described by a reduced compartmental equation or by a detailed biophysical model that captures local dendritic spikes, calcium dynamics, and synaptic plasticity.

The term is not part of established neuroanatomy and is used primarily in theoretical discussions and in computational studies to explore subcellular computation. Its usage is not uniform, and some researchers view neuronells as abstractions rather than distinct biological entities. The name is a portmanteau of neuron and the diminutive suffix -ell, chosen to evoke a small, neuron-like unit.

Critics argue that neuronell-based models risk over-parameterization and may obscure direct links to measurable phenomena. Proponents, however, say the concept can clarify how local dendritic processing contributes to learning and network dynamics when integrated with conventional neuron models.

Related topics include neuron, dendrite, dendritic spine, compartmental modeling, and computational neuroscience.