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Multiple-mouse Neuroanatomical Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Published on: February 27, 2011
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A medullary centre for lapping in mice.
Bowen Dempsey1, Selvee Sungeelee1, Phillip Bokiniec2
1Institut de Biologie de l'ENS (IBENS), Inserm, CNRS, École normale supérieure, PSL Research University, Paris, France.
Nature Communications
|November 3, 2021
Summary
Researchers identified two brainstem nuclei, IRtPhox2b and Peri5Atoh1, that organize fluid ingestion movements in mice. These nuclei control jaw and tongue muscles, with IRtPhox2b specifically orchestrating rhythmic lapping motions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Motor Control
- Feeding Behavior
Background:
- Orofacial movements for feeding are coordinated by the brainstem.
- Subcortical control of ingestive behaviors is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- Identify brainstem nuclei organizing fluid ingestion.
- Investigate the role of specific neuronal groups in feeding movements.
Main Methods:
- Neuronal stimulation in awake mice.
- Fiber photometry for neural activity recording.
- Identification of Phox2b-expressing neuronal groups.
Main Results:
- Two nuclei, IRtPhox2b and Peri5Atoh1, were identified as key organizers of fluid ingestion.
- Stimulation of these nuclei elicited jaw opening and tongue protraction.
- IRtPhox2b stimulation induced rhythmic lapping movements, and was active during volitional lapping.
Conclusions:
- IRtPhox2b and Peri5Atoh1 are critical subcortical centers for organizing feeding behaviors.
- This study reveals novel neural circuits underlying stereotyped ingestive actions.
