Formalization of the model

Formalization of the model of the striatum involves expressing the anatomical and physiological assumptions in precise mathematical definitions. In addition, many simplifications are required. Because of limitations on the computational facilities, many decisions are made beforehand such as which details to include and what to leave out. A trade-off is made between the size of the network, which could be simulated, and the amount of physiological detail, which could be included. In the formalization of model, all the simplifications are made in accordance with the guiding principle that the properties of the model should not be the result of the simplifications. The variables and constants of the model are all defined in physical units, such as millivolts, nanoamps, megohms, picofarads, and nanosiemens. Every constant and parameter value in the model is justified by reference to the relevant literature. However, this constrains the properties of the model within bounds that are biologically meaningful. To meet the aim of linking together different levels of organization, the model is kept relatively realistic.