Locomotor circuits in the mammalian spinal cord

Ole Kiehn*

*Corresponding author for this work
584 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Intrinsic spinal networks, known as central pattern generators (CPGs), control the timing and pattern of the muscle activity underlying locomotion in mammals. This review discusses new advances in understanding the mammalian CPGs with a focus on experiments that address the overall network structure as well as the identification of CPG neurons. I address the identification of excitatory CPG neurons and their role in rhythm generation, the organization of flexor-extensor networks, and the diverse role of commissural interneurons in coordinating left-right movements. Molecular and genetic approaches that have the potential to elucidate the function of populations of CPG interneurons are also discussed.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAnnual Review of Neuroscience
Number of pages28
Publication date5 Oct 2006
Pages279-306
ISBN (Print)0824324293, 9780824324292
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 5 Oct 2006
SeriesAnnual Review of Neuroscience
Volume29
ISSN0147-006X

Keywords

  • Interneurons
  • Molecular genetic
  • Motor control
  • Transcription factors
  • Transgenic mice

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