Computational Models of Neurological DisorderThe use of dynamic computational models of neural circuitry to streamline new drug development

We propose a relatively novel use of dynamic models of neural circuitry in the process of new drug development for neurological disorders. A neural circuit model of depressive disorder was developed. Differences in synaptic activation represented variations in drug binding affinity strength for ten putative molecules. Circuit dynamics led to changes in firing rates compared to normal and depressed baselines. Differing abilities to affect circuitry dynamics not linearly related to binding affinity were appreciated, allowing molecules to be prioritized earlier for future study. Animal and human trial planning can use this information to streamline drug development, conserving cost and time.