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In Vivo Wireless Optogenetic Control of Skilled Motor Behavior
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A functional map for diverse forelimb actions within brainstem circuitry.

Ludwig Ruder1,2, Riccardo Schina1,2, Harsh Kanodia1,2

  • 1Biozentrum, Department of Cell Biology, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.

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|January 7, 2021
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Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Researchers mapped brainstem circuits for skilled forelimb movements. Specific neuronal populations in the lateral rostral medulla (latRM) control actions like reaching and food handling, revealing new insights into motor control.

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Motor Control
  • Brainstem Circuits

Background:

  • The brainstem is crucial for body movement control.
  • Understanding neuronal control of skilled forelimb movements is limited, with focus on higher brain centers and the spinal cord.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To define the functional map of skilled forelimb movements within the brainstem's lateral rostral medulla (latRM).
  • To identify specific neuronal populations and circuits responsible for complex forelimb actions.

Main Methods:

  • In vivo electrophysiology in freely moving mice.
  • Genetic manipulation and viral tracing techniques.
  • Optogenetic stimulation of neuronal populations.

Main Results:

  • Identified a neuronal code in latRM populations tuned to distinct forelimb actions (e.g., reaching, food handling).
  • Perturbation of excitatory latRM neurons impaired these actions.
  • Excitatory latRM neurons segregate by axonal target, differentially recruiting brainstem and spinal circuits.
  • Optogenetic stimulation of projection-defined latRM populations elicited diverse, stable forelimb movements.

Conclusions:

  • Projection-stratified brainstem populations in the latRM encode action phases.
  • These populations act as building blocks for regulating complex forelimb movements.
  • Identified key brainstem substrates for skilled forelimb behaviors.