Glutamatergic mechanisms for speed control and network operation in the rodent locomotor CPG

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal articleResearchpeer-review

Locomotion is a fundamental motor act that, to a large degree, is controlled by central patterngenerating (CPG) networks in the spinal cord. Glutamate is thought to be responsible for most of the excitatory input to and the excitatory activity within the locomotor CPG. However, previous studies in mammals have produced conflicting results regarding the necessity and role of the different ionotropic glutamate receptors (GluRs) in the CPG function. Here, we use electrophysiological and pharmacological techniques in the in vitro neonatal mouse lumbar spinal cord to investigate the role of a broad range of ionotropic GluRs in the control of locomotor speed and intrinsic locomotor network function. We show that non-NMDA (non-NMDARs) and NMDA receptor (NMDAR) systems may independently mediate locomotor-like activity and that these receptors set different speeds of locomotor-like activity through mechanisms acting at various network levels. AMPA and kainate receptors are necessary for generating the highest locomotor frequencies. For coordination, NMDARs are more important than non-NMDARs for conveying the rhythmic signal from the network to the motor neurons during long-lasting and steady locomotor activity. This study reveals that a diversity of ionotropic GluRs tunes the network to perform at different locomotor speeds and provides multiple levels for potential regulation and plasticity.

Original languageEnglish
Article number19
JournalFrontiers in Neural Circuits
Volume4
Issue numberAUG
ISSN1662-5110
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 6 Aug 2010

    Research areas

  • 5HT, AMPA, Central pattern generator, Kainate, Locomotion, NBQX, NMDA, Spinal cord

ID: 194977484