Mapping Brain-to-Spinal Cord Pathways for Motor Control

[Chip (OP)]

Source:
https://neurosciencenews.com/brain-mapping-spine-brain-motor-28285/

Mapping Brain-to-Spinal Cord Pathways for Motor Control

Published December 23, 2024

Summary:

"Researchers have created a 3D atlas mapping brain regions that connect to V1 spinal interneurons, which shape motor output.

By using a genetically modified rabies virus, they pinpointed connections from the brain to these diverse “switchboard operator” cells in the spinal cord.

The atlas highlights how brain signals regulate movement and provides a tool for further research into motor control and behavior.

This breakthrough offers insights into neural networks underlying movement and lays the groundwork for studies into motor disorders."

Key Facts:

Neural Connections Visualized: A 3D atlas maps brain regions sending signals to V1 spinal interneurons.

Advanced Tools:

Genetically modified rabies virus and 3D imaging enabled precise tracing of brain-to-spinal cord pathways.

Motor Control Insights:

The atlas identifies diverse pathways crucial for shaping motor behavior.

Signals relayed to motor neurons from the brain enable muscle movement, but these signals typically pass through spinal interneurons before they reach their destination.

How the brain and this highly diverse group of “switchboard operator” cells are connected is poorly understood.

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