Activity of C3-C4 propriospinal neurons during fictitious forelimb locomotion in the cat

The activity of C3-C4 propriospinal neurons was recorded during fictitious forelimb locomotion in immobilized decerebrated cats with the spinal cord transected at the lower thoracic level. The discharge frequency of most neurons was rhythmically modulated in relation to the cycle of fictitious stepping in spite of the absence of any rhythmic signals from the limb receptors. Thus, the intraspinal mechanisms present a powerful input to the C3-C4 propriospinal neurons.