Coordinated network functioning in the spinal cord: An evolutionary perspective

1. J Physiol Paris. 2006 Nov-Dec;100(5-6):304-16. doi:
10.1016/j.jphysparis.2007.05.003. Epub 2007 Jun 7.

Coordinated network functioning in the spinal cord: an evolutionary perspective.

Falgairolle M(1), de Seze M, Juvin L, Morin D, Cazalets JR.

Author information:
(1)Université Bordeaux 2, CNRS Zone Nord, Bat 2, 2e étage, 146, rue Léo Saigant,
33076 Bordeaux Cedex, France.

The successful achievement of harmonious locomotor movement results from the
integrated operation of all body segments. Here, we will review current
knowledge on the functional organization of spinal networks involved in
mammalian locomotion. Attention will not simply be restricted to hindlimb muscle
control, but by also considering the necessarily coordinated activation of trunk
and forelimb muscles, we will try to demonstrate that while there has been a
progressive increase in locomotor system complexity during evolution, many basic
organizational features have been preserved across the spectrum from lower
vertebrates through to humans. Concerning the organization of axial neuronal
networks that control trunk muscles, it has been found across the vertebrate
range that during locomotor movement a motor wave travels longitudinally in the
spinal cord via the coupling of rhythmic segmental networks. For hindlimb
activation it has been found in all species studied that the rostral lumbar
segments contain the key elements for pattern generation. We also showed that
rhythmic arm movements are under the control of cervical forelimb generators in
quadrupeds as well as in human. Finally, it is highlighted that the coordination
of quadrupedal movements during locomotion derives principally from an
asymmetrical coordinating influence occurring in the caudo-rostral direction
from the lumbar hindlimb networks.

DOI: 10.1016/j.jphysparis.2007.05.003
PMID: 17658245 [Indexed for MEDLINE]

Auteurs Bordeaux Neurocampus