Rhythmogenesis in axial locomotor networks: an interspecies comparison.
During locomotion, specialized neural networks referred to as "central pattern generators" ensure precise temporal relations between the axial segments, both in limbed and limbless vertebrates. These neural networks are intrinsically capable of generating coordinated patterns of rhythmic activity in the absence of sensory feedback or descending command from higher brain centers. Rhythmogenesis in these neural circuits lies on several mechanisms, both at the cellular and the network levels. In this chapter, we compare the anatomical organization of the axial networks, the role of identified spinal neurons, and their interactions in rhythmogenesis in four species: lamprey, zebrafish, Xenopus tadpole, and salamander. The comparison suggests that several principles in axial network design are phylogenetically conserved among vertebrates.
Groupe de Recherche sur le Système Nerveux Central, Département de Physiologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
Dimitri
D
Ryczko
Réjean
R
Dubuc
Jean-Marie
JM
Cabelguen
D000818:Animals; D005121:Extremities / Q000294:innervation; D007395:Interneurons / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology; D007798:Lampreys / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology; D008124:Locomotion / Q000502:physiology*; D009046:Motor Neurons / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology; D009415:Nerve Net / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000502:physiology*; D010507:Periodicity; D013116:Spinal Cord / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology; D014562:Caudata / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology; D014982:Xenopus laevis / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology; D015027:Zebrafish / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology