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Corticospinal Excitability Modulation During Action Observation
Published on: December 31, 2013
The discovery of motor cortex and its background
1Department of Psychology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08540, USA. cggross@princeton.edu
Journal of the History of the Neurosciences
|July 11, 2007
Summary
In 1870, Fritsch and Hitzig demonstrated electrical stimulation of the cerebral cortex causes movement. This pivotal neuroscience finding provided early evidence for motor function localization and electrical excitability of the brain.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Neurophysiology
- History of Science
Background:
- Early concepts of brain function by Willis and Swedenborg.
- 18th-century advancements in understanding electricity.
- Phrenology and early localization theories by Gall.
Discussion:
- Fritsch and Hitzig's 1870 experiment on canine cerebral cortex stimulation.
- Evidence for motor cortex involvement and electrical excitability.
- Historical context including Broca and Hughlings Jackson's work.
Key Insights:
- Demonstrated direct link between cerebral cortex stimulation and motor responses.
- Provided experimental basis for topographic representation in the brain.
- Established the principle of functional localization within the cerebral cortex.
Outlook:
- Laid groundwork for subsequent motor cortex research by Ferrier and others.
- Influenced the trajectory of modern neuroscience and brain mapping.
- Highlighted the importance of experimental approaches in understanding brain function.
Related Concept Videos
01:14Motor and Sensory Areas of the Cortex
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Motor Areas
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Motor Areas
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01:23Somatosensory, Motor, and Association Cortex
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01:21Association Areas of the Cortex
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01:33Somatosensation
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01:22Lobes of the Cerebrum
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Frontal lobe
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01:11Direct Motor Pathways
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