Topic: rhythm generators

Quadrupedal locomotion arises from a complex interplay between spinal neuronal circuits, descending brain signals, musculoskeletal interactions, and sensory feedback, enabling adaptive speed and terrain dependent gait transitions. However, the underlying neural mechanisms involved in limb coordination are poorly understood. Here, we present a 3D closed-loop neuromechanical model of a mouse and use it to explore interactions between the spinal circuitry and afferent feedback and their role in interlimb coordination during quadrupedal locomotion. The spinal circuit model includes four rhythm gen

Long propriospinal neurons coordinate activities between limb-specific neural circuitry in the cervical and lumbar enlargement. Silencing of either ascending or descending long propriospinal neurons in intact rats results in a disruption of left–right coordination. Yet, their silencing after a moderate thoracic contusive injury significantly improves locomotion. The underlying mechanisms are unclear and further complicated by the context-dependency of the phenotypes, and likely involve afferent feedback and biomechanical constraints. Here, we present an integrated neurorobotic model of quadrup