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Updated: Aug 1, 2026
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Measuring and Manipulating Functionally Specific Neural Pathways in the Human Motor System with Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Published on: February 23, 2020
Plateau potentials and active integration in the 'final common pathway' for motor behaviour.
1Institute of Neurophysiology, Panum Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Trends in Neurosciences
|February 1, 1991
Summary
Spinal motoneurones, once thought passive, actively shape motor behaviour. New research reveals complex intrinsic properties, like plateau potentials, in these crucial output neurons.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Motor Control
- Computational Biology
Background:
- Traditional view: Vertebrate spinal motoneurones are simple, passive output neurons.
- Previous models: Motoneurones passively convert synaptic input into output spike trains.
- Emerging evidence: Motoneurones exhibit complex intrinsic response properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To challenge the passive model of spinal motoneurone function.
- To highlight the active role of motoneurones in motor behaviour.
- To investigate nonlinear intrinsic properties of motoneurones.
Main Methods:
- Electrophysiological recordings in vertebrate spinal motoneurones.
- Analysis of intrinsic membrane properties, including plateau potentials.
- Investigation of endogenous oscillatory properties.
Main Results:
- Demonstration of nonlinear intrinsic response properties in motoneurones.
- Identification of plateau potentials and endogenous oscillations.
- Evidence contradicting the purely passive model of motoneurone function.
Conclusions:
- Spinal motoneurones are not merely passive conduits.
- Intrinsic nonlinear properties actively contribute to motor control.
- The 'final common pathway' plays a dynamic role in shaping motor output.
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