Synaptic connectivity amongst components of the locomotor central pattern generator

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Locomotor Circuitry
• Mammalian Nervous System

Background:

• Significant progress in identifying functional components of mammalian locomotor neural circuits over the past two decades.
• Molecular, electrophysiological, and anatomical techniques have identified genetically defined interneuronal populations and their roles in stepping.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of synaptic connectivity within genetically defined interneuronal populations involved in locomotion.
• To highlight knowledge gaps in synaptic connectivity crucial for understanding functional circuit assembly.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature integrating molecular, electrophysiological, and anatomical findings.
• Focus on genetically defined interneuronal populations.

Main Results:

• Identification of several classes of genetically defined interneuronal populations involved in mammalian locomotion.
• Delineation of the specific functions of many of these interneurons during the stepping process.

Conclusions:

• While the identity and function of key interneurons are known, their precise synaptic connectivity remains largely uncharacterized.
• A clear picture of synaptic connectivity is essential for a comprehensive understanding of how these interneurons form a functional locomotor circuit.