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Mechanically evoked perioral reflexes in infants.
S M Barlow1, D S Finan, S G Rowland
1Department of Speech and Hearing Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington 47405.
Brain Research
|December 18, 1992
Summary
Infant lip reflexes were studied using EMG. Mechanical stimulation caused quick, widespread muscle activation, important for developing motor skills like speech and smiling.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Motor Control
Background:
- The orbicularis oris muscle is crucial for facial expressions and oral motor functions.
- Understanding early facial reflex development is key to comprehending motor skill acquisition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate mechanically evoked muscle activity in the orbicularis oris muscle of young infants.
- To analyze the developmental trajectory of facial reflex sensitivity.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a custom position-servo linear motor and an EMG-instrumented pacifier.
- Recorded electromyography (EMG) signals from superior and inferior orbicularis oris segments.
- Applied unilateral mechanical stimulation to the lip vermilion.
Main Results:
- Short-latency, bilateral activation of upper and lower lip muscles was observed following unilateral stimulation.
- Demonstrated a clear reflex response to mechanical input in infant facial muscles.
Conclusions:
- Infant facial reflexes show rapid, bilateral responses to mechanical stimuli.
- These findings provide insights into the ontogenesis of facial reflex sensitivity and its role in motor skill development, including speech and smiling.