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Cellular mechanisms underlying behavioral state-dependent bidirectional modulation of motor cortex output
Julia Schiemann1, Paolo Puggioni2, Joshua Dacre1
1Centre for Integrative Physiology and Patrick Wild Centre, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK.
Cell Reports
|May 19, 2015
Summary
Researchers discovered how brain activity in the primary motor cortex (M1) changes during movement. Noradrenaline and network inputs bidirectionally control M1 output, impacting motor coordination.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Motor Control
- Cellular Mechanisms
Background:
- Neuronal activity in the primary motor cortex (M1) correlates with behavioral states.
- Cellular mechanisms for behavioral state-dependent M1 output modulation are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the cellular mechanisms of M1 output modulation during voluntary movement.
- Determine the role of subthreshold dynamics and neuromodulation in motor behavior.
Main Methods:
- In vivo patch-clamp recordings from layer 5B (L5B) pyramidal neurons in awake mice.
- Recordings were performed during quiet wakefulness and self-paced voluntary movement.
- Noradrenergic receptor blockade in forelimb M1 was used to assess its role.
Main Results:
- L5B output neurons showed bidirectional firing rate changes (enhanced or suppressed) during movement.
- Suppressed firing was linked to decreased membrane potential variability.
- Enhanced firing was associated with noradrenaline-mediated increases in excitatory drive.
- Blocking noradrenergic receptors abolished bidirectional M1 output modulation and impaired motor coordination.
Conclusions:
- Noradrenergic neuromodulation and network input changes bidirectionally modulate M1 output during motor behavior.
- These mechanisms are crucial for motor coordination during voluntary movement.
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