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Can the mammalian lumbar spinal cord learn a motor task?
J A Hodgson1, R R Roy, R de Leon
1Department of Physiological Science, University of California at Los Angeles 90024-1527.
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|December 1, 1994
Summary
Spinal cord transection in cats impairs hindlimb function, but treadmill training, especially when initiated early, significantly restores stepping ability. The spinal cord demonstrates a capacity for motor learning, with training effects being reversible.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Motor control
- Spinal cord injury research
Background:
- Complete spinal cord transection (T12-T13) in cats causes immediate hindlimb locomotor deficits.
- Spontaneous recovery of limited locomotor function occurs over months without specific therapeutic interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review progress in restoring locomotor function in cats with low thoracic spinal transection.
- To explore the application of these techniques to human spinal cord injury patients.
Main Methods:
- Cats with spinal cord transection underwent treadmill training (30 min/day, 5 days/week) for varying durations.
- Comparative groups included cats trained for standing versus stepping, and early versus delayed training initiation.
- Reversibility of motor function was assessed over a 20-month period.
Main Results:
- Early-initiated treadmill stepping training (1 week post-transection) significantly improved hindlimb locomotor ability.
- Cats trained for standing exhibited difficulty with locomotion, while stepping-trained cats showed improved function.
- Motor task learning was demonstrated as training effects were reversible through different training paradigms.
Conclusions:
- The adult spinal cord possesses a remarkable capacity for learning specific motor tasks, such as stepping.
- Treadmill training is a viable strategy for enhancing locomotor recovery after spinal cord injury.
- While full locomotion remains elusive in clinically complete human spinal cord injuries, coordinated muscle activity during assisted locomotion suggests potential for therapeutic approaches.