Identification of Minimal Neuronal Networks Involved in Flexor-Extensor Alternation in the Mammalian Spinal Cord
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Neural networks in the spinal cord control two basic features of locomotor movements: rhythm generation and pattern generation. Rhythm generation is generally considered to be dependent on glutamatergic excitatory neurons. Pattern generation involves neural circuits controlling left-right alternation, which has been described in great detail, and flexor-extensor alternation, which remains poorly understood. Here, we use a mouse model in which glutamatergic neurotransmission has been ablated in the locomotor region of the spinal cord. The isolated in vitro spinal cord from these mice produces locomotor-like activity-when stimulated with neuroactive substances-with prominent flexor-extensor alternation. Under these conditions, unlike in control mice, networks of inhibitory interneurons generate the rhythmic activity. In the absence of glutamatergic synaptic transmission, the flexor-extensor alternation appears to be generated by Ia inhibitory interneurons, which mediate reciprocal inhibition from muscle proprioceptors to antagonist motor neurons. Our study defines a minimal inhibitory network that is needed to produce flexor-extensor alternation during locomotion.
Original language | English |
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Journal | Neuron |
Volume | 71 |
Issue number | 6 |
Pages (from-to) | 1071-1084 |
Number of pages | 14 |
ISSN | 0896-6273 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 22 Sep 2011 |
ID: 194977397