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Activity of cat premotor cortex neurons during visually guided stepping
Gonzalo Viana Di Prisco1,2, Vladimir Marlinski2, Irina N Beloozerova2,3
1Stark Neurosciences Research Institute, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States.
Journal of Neurophysiology
|August 23, 2023
Summary
Neurons in the feline premotor cortex (a brain region) are crucial for visually guiding steps on complex surfaces. Their firing patterns change significantly when cats navigate obstacles, highlighting their role in visual-motor control.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Motor Control
- Locomotion
Background:
- Visual control of locomotion is essential for navigating complex environments.
- The premotor cortex's role in visually guiding steps during overground locomotion remains largely unexamined.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the activity of neurons in feline premotor cortex areas 6aα and 6aγ during vision-dependent and vision-independent stepping.
- To determine the extent to which premotor cortex neurons contribute to the visual guidance of steps.
Main Methods:
- Recorded neuronal activity in feline premotor cortex areas 6aα and 6aγ.
- Compared neuronal firing patterns during locomotion on a flat surface (vision-independent) versus stepping over obstacles (vision-dependent).
Main Results:
- 59% of neurons showed stride-related modulation on a flat surface.
- 83-86% of neurons altered activity when transitioning to obstacle navigation.
- Firing rate, modulation depth, and preferred stride phases changed for a significant proportion of neurons (33-73%) during vision-dependent stepping.
Conclusions:
- A substantial number of premotor cortex neurons are involved in the visual guidance of steps.
- Premotor cortex neurons modify their firing phase, intensity, and salience to support visual control of locomotion.
