Dorsally derived spinal interneurons in locomotor circuits

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Biology
• Genetics

Background:

• Axon guidance molecules are crucial for forming functional neuronal circuits.
• The spinal cord central pattern generator (CPG) is a key system for studying locomotion circuitry.
• Commissural interneurons play vital roles in neuronal circuit development and function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of commissural interneurons in locomotor circuitry.
• To explore the function of axon guidance molecules, specifically Eph/ephrins and Netrin/DCC, in midline crossing.
• To identify novel genetic factors influencing locomotor coordination.

Main Methods:

• Genetic studies in mice focusing on aberrant midline axon guidance.
• Analysis of commissural interneuron development and function.
• Investigation of the dI6 interneuron marker Dmrt3 and its role in locomotion.

Main Results:

• Aberrant midline axon guidance affects both ventral and dorsal commissural interneurons.
• Dorsal commissural interneurons are implicated in coordinating locomotor circuitry.
• The novel dI6 interneuron marker Dmrt3 is crucial for coordinated gait.
• Mutations in Dmrt3 lead to divergent gait patterns in mice and horses.

Conclusions:

• Both ventral and dorsal commissural interneurons are essential for proper locomotor circuit function.
• Dmrt3 is a key genetic determinant for coordinated locomotion.
• Understanding Dmrt3's role offers insights into gait disorders and potential therapeutic targets.