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Related Experiment Videos

Coordinated network functioning in the spinal cord: an evolutionary perspective.

Mélanie Falgairolle1, Mathieu de Seze, Laurent Juvin

  • 1Université Bordeaux 2, CNRS Zone Nord, Bat 2, 2e étage, 146, rue Léo Saigant, 33076 Bordeaux Cedex, France.

Journal of Physiology, Paris
|July 31, 2007
PubMed
Summary
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Spinal networks coordinate locomotion across species. Rhythmic movements in hindlimbs, trunk, and forelimbs are controlled by conserved neural patterns, demonstrating evolutionary preservation in motor control.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Comparative Physiology
  • Evolutionary Biology

Background:

  • Locomotion relies on integrated body segment function.
  • Understanding spinal network organization is key to deciphering motor control.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the functional organization of spinal networks in mammalian locomotion.
  • To highlight conserved organizational features across vertebrate evolution.
  • To examine the coordination of hindlimb, trunk, and forelimb muscles.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current knowledge on spinal locomotor networks.
  • Comparative analysis of neuronal networks across vertebrate species.

Main Results:

  • Axial neuronal networks exhibit a longitudinal motor wave via coupled segmental networks.

Related Experiment Videos

  • Rostral lumbar segments are crucial for hindlimb pattern generation in all studied species.
  • Cervical generators control rhythmic arm movements in quadrupeds and humans.
  • Coordination of quadrupedal locomotion is influenced by caudo-rostral signals from lumbar networks.

    • Conclusions:

    • Basic organizational features of locomotor spinal networks are preserved throughout vertebrate evolution.
    • Locomotion involves coordinated activation of hindlimb, trunk, and forelimb muscles.
    • Spinal cord networks demonstrate a fundamental, conserved architecture for generating rhythmic movements.