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Zebrafish In Situ Spinal Cord Preparation for Electrophysiological Recordings from Spinal Sensory and Motor Neurons
Published on: April 18, 2017
From circuits to behaviour: motor networks in vertebrates
Lidia Garcia-Campmany1, Floor J Stam, Martyn Goulding
1Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 North Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
Current Opinion in Neurobiology
|February 9, 2010
Summary
Neural networks in the brainstem and spinal cord control breathing and locomotion. This review details genetic programs and signaling pathways that shape these essential motor circuits.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Motor Control
Background:
- Neural networks in the hindbrain and spinal cord are crucial for generating rhythmic motor activity like breathing and locomotion.
- These networks operate autonomously yet are adaptable, responding to sensory and central commands.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in understanding the genetic control of respiratory and locomotor circuits.
- To highlight the roles of retrograde signaling and experience-dependent mechanisms in circuit assembly and sensory innervation.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on neural circuit development.
- Analysis of genetic programs and signaling pathways involved in motor control.
- Examination of sensory afferent innervation and its establishment.
Main Results:
- Genetic programs guide the assembly and function of hindbrain and spinal cord circuits.
- Retrograde signaling and experience-dependent plasticity shape neural connectivity.
- Sensory afferent innervation is critical for spinal cord function.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying motor circuit formation is key.
- Experience-dependent mechanisms refine motor behaviors, particularly sensory integration.
- Further research into these areas will advance our knowledge of motor control and neurological disorders.
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