The role of somatosensory information in a constrained locomotor task.

摘要: Abstract The purpose of this project was to study the role somatosensory information in performance a constrained locomotor task by rats and further examine influence structural recovery thalamus, specifically ventral posterolateral nucleus (VPL). Groups were trained traverse an elevated, one inch bar for reward. time taken run across (run time) used as measure success goal-directed behavior. movement pattern hindlimb during swing phase quantified from videotape on Preoperative (PRE) Day 15 46-day postoperative period. characterized using six different parameters: area, X Y values centroid under normalized curve trajectory, vertical displacement flexion extension phases cycle, maximum instantaneous velocity, proportion spent acceleration versus deceleration cycle. In order disrupt central pathways information, lesions made (i) right gracile (GN) (n = 18), (ii) bilateral GN 7), (iii) left VPL 6), (iv) 8), (v) sham-operated animals 5). cycle measures loss function. Only group showed impairment they recovered Postoperative (POST) Week 4. All groups demonstrated initial that only. On POST 49, GN, sham received injections 5% WGA-HRP into both CN determine location these projections VPL. not redistributed area after lesions. Since our previous (24) had shown number synpases returned normal dorsal column nuclei (DCN) 50, synapses alone sufficient restore gait pattern, while preceded complete synapses. may require processing specific lemniscal bilaterally behavioral be subserved other neural mechanisms, such disinhibition neurons result DCN lesions, allowing more responsive alternative inputs or physiological adaptations ascending systems.