Locomotion (Karius)

Question 1

What do breathing and walking have in common?

Answer 1

Basic motion of either requires the coordinated activation/relaxation of several muscles repeated over and over

Question 2

Central pattern generator?

Answer 2

Collection of neurons whose output creates a motor act that needs to be repeated over/over to be effective (aka a rhythmic action)

Question 3

Examples of CPGs in humans

Answer 3

Walking, breathing, mastication

Question 4

Where is the CPG for walking located?

Answer 4

Spinal cord

Question 5

Are CPGs under voluntary control?

Answer 5

To some degree, yes

Question 6

Which parts of the brain play a role in activating the CPG?

Answer 6

Primary motor cortex and cerebellum

Question 7

What role does sensory feedback play in walking CPG?

Answer 7

• Makes sure the motion is appropriate given the circumstances and modifies the output

Question 8

What would happen to the walking CPG if the sensory component was lost?

Answer 8

Pace would slow dramatically (loss of excitation provided by sensory input)

Question 9

Explain activation of walking in paralyzed patients?

Answer 9

Connection between CPG and cortex is lost… so the CPG neurons are far from threshold