Emotion in action: When emotions meet motor circuits

Braine A(1), Georges F(2).

Author information:
(1)Univ. Bordeaux, CNRS, IMN, UMR 5293, F-33000 Bordeaux, France.
(2)Univ. Bordeaux, CNRS, IMN, UMR 5293, F-33000 Bordeaux, France. Electronic
address: .

The brain is a remarkably complex organ responsible for a wide range of
functions, including the modulation of emotional states and movement. Neuronal
circuits are believed to play a crucial role in integrating sensory, cognitive,
and emotional information to ultimately guide motor behavior. Over the years,
numerous studies employing diverse techniques such as electrophysiology,
imaging, and optogenetics have revealed a complex network of neural circuits
involved in the regulation of emotional or motor processes. Emotions can exert a
substantial influence on motor performance, encompassing both everyday
activities and pathological conditions. The aim of this review is to explore how
emotional states can shape movements by connecting the neural circuits for
emotional processing to motor neural circuits. We first provide a comprehensive
overview of the impact of different emotional states on motor control in humans
and rodents. In line with behavioral studies, we set out to identify
emotion-related structures capable of modulating motor output, behaviorally and
anatomically. Neuronal circuits involved in emotional processing are extensively
connected to the motor system. These circuits can drive emotional behavior,
essential for survival, but can also continuously shape ongoing movement. In
summary, the investigation of the intricate relationship between emotion and
movement offers valuable insights into human behavior, including opportunities
to enhance performance, and holds promise for improving mental and physical
health. This review integrates findings from multiple scientific approaches,
including anatomical tracing, circuit-based dissection, and behavioral studies,
conducted in both animal and human subjects. By incorporating these different
methodologies, we aim to present a comprehensive overview of the current
understanding of the emotional modulation of movement in both physiological and
pathological conditions.

Copyright © 2023 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Auteurs Bordeaux Neurocampus