In this study, we examine the utility of computational modeling in understa
nding nervous system function. We start by examining the reasons for, and m
ajor approaches to, computational modeling. We then chose a modeling approa
ch and applied different variations to understanding nucleus tractus solita
rius (NTS) neuronal responses to various baroreceptive stimuli. We examine
the results in light of our objectives and with regard to the known paramet
ers of the system under investigation. Our results demonstrate that modelin
g can be a useful tool in analysis of (and examination of underlying mechan
isms for) NTS behavior on many levels. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Inc.