[Features of stepping pattern formation in decerebrated cats under epidural spinal cord stimulation]

The mechanisms of stepping pattern formation initiated by epidural spinal cord stimulation in decerebrated cats, were investigated. It is shown that the ability to produce the stepping pattern involve the L3-L5 segments. In flexor muscle, the formation of stepping pattern under optimal stimulation frequency (5-10 Hz) of these segments is provided by polysynaptic activity with the latency 80-110 ms. In extensor muscle, this process is realized through interaction of monosynaptic reflex and polysynaptic activity. The stepping pattern under epidural stimulation is determined by spinal structures with modulation influence of the peripheral feedback.