Determinants of locomotor recovery after spinal injury in the cat

摘要: After a spinalization at the most caudal thoracic spinal segment, cat can recover locomotion of hindlimbs when they are placed on moving treadmill. This chapter summarizes some determinants such dramatic recovery motor function. Fundamental to this is undoubtedly genetically based locomotor generator, which provides an essential rhythmicity motoneurons and hence musculature. Other factors also important, however. Sensory feedback for correct expression because cats, devoid cutaneous from hindfeet, incapable plantar foot placement. The neurochemical environment adapts spinalization, i.e., loss all modulation by descending monoaminergic pathways. Post-transection then becomes more dependent glutamatergic mechanisms. Finally, we argue that mid-lumbar segments evolve play crucial role in elaboration as their inactivation abolishes locomotion. In summary, above findings suggest determined number factors, each must now be fully understood ever-continuing effort improve rehabilitation spinal-cord-injured subjects.