Connecting Circuits for Supraspinal Control of Locomotion

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2018

Authors

Ferreira-Pinto, MJ (Author) FMUP; Ruder, L (Author) Other; Capelli, P (Author) Other; Arber, S (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Neuron

Vol. 100

Pages: 361-374

ISSN: 0896-6273

Publisher: Elsevier

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 78 Citations

Scopus - 81 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00Z-ZNF

DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2018.09.015

Abstract (EN): Locomotion is regulated by distributed circuits and achieved by the concerted activation of body musculature. While the basic properties of executive circuits in the spinal cord are fairly well understood, the precise mechanisms by which the brain impacts locomotion are much less clear. This Review discusses recent work unraveling the cellular identity, connectivity, and function of supraspinal circuits. We focus on their involvement in the regulation of the different phases of locomotion and their interaction with spinal circuits. Dedicated neuronal populations in the brainstem carry locomotor instructions, including initiation, speed, and termination. To align locomotion with behavioral needs, brainstem output structures are recruited by midbrain and forebrain circuits that compute and infer volitional, innate, and context-dependent locomotor properties. We conclude that the emerging logic of supraspinal circuit organization helps to understand how locomotor programs from exploration to hunting and escape are regulated by the brain. Ferreira-Pinto et al. discuss recent work unraveling cellular identity, connectivity, and function of brain circuits orchestrating locomotion. Context-adequate forms of locomotion¿from exploration to escape¿are implemented by precise interactions between dedicated neuronal populations connecting forebrain, brainstem, and spinal circuits.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 14