101
|
Silva C, Oliveira K, Lavor M, Silva J, Rosado I, Taguchi T, Fukushima F, Caldeira F, Torres B, Milani P, Azevedo S, Motta G, Siano G, Goes A, Serakides R, Melo E. Benefícios da condroitinase abc associada a células-tronco mesenquimais na lesão espinhal aguda em ratos. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2018. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-4162-9523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
RESUMO Com o objetivo de estudar o efeito da condroitinase associada às células-tronco mesenquimais na lesão aguda da medula espinhal, utilizaram-se 50 ratos Lewis, distribuídos igualmente nos grupos: controle negativo (CN), tratamento com placebo (PLA), condroitinase (CDN), células-tronco mesenquimais (CTM) e condroitinase mais células-tronco mesenquimais (CDN+CTM). Todos os animais tiveram a medula espinhal exposta por laminectomia, e os grupos PLA, CDT, CTM e CDT+CTM sofreram também trauma medular compressivo. Após sete dias, procedeu-se à reexposição da medula espinhal, quando os grupos PLA e CTM receberam 4µL de líquido cefalorraquidiano artificial via intralesional, e os grupos CDT e CDT+CTM receberam o mesmo líquido contendo 2,2U de condroitinase. Após 14 dias da cirurgia inicial, todos os animais receberam 0,2mL de PBS via endovenosa, contudo, nos grupos CTM e CDT+CTM, esse líquido continha 1x106 CTM. Avaliou-se a capacidade motora até o 28o dia pós-trauma e, posteriormente, as medulas espinhais foram analisadas por RT-PCR, para quantificação da expressão gênica para BDNF, NT-3, VEGF, KDR e PECAM-1, e por imunoistoquímica, para detecção das células-tronco GFP injetadas (anti-GFP), quantificação dos neurônios (anti-NeuN) e da GFAP e vimentina, para avaliação da cicatriz glial. As análises estatísticas foram realizadas com o auxílio do Prism 5 for Windows, com o nível de significância de 5%. Não houve diferença entre os grupos quanto à capacidade motora. O grupo CDT+CTM apresentou maior imunoexpressão de neurônios viáveis do que o placebo. No CTM, houve maior expressão dos fatores neurotróficos BDNF e VEGF. E no CDT, houve menor imunoexpressão de vimentina. Concluiu-se que a associação CDT+CTM favorece a viabilidade neuronal após o trauma, que o tratamento com CTM promove aumento na expressão dos fatores tróficos BDNF e VEGF e que o tratamento com condroitinase é efetivo na redução da cicatriz glial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - J.F. Silva
- Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - P.F. Milani
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - G.R. Motta
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - G.F. Siano
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - A.M. Goes
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - E.G. Melo
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
102
|
Parker D, McClelland TJ. Neuromodulator interactions and spinal cord injury in lamprey. Neural Regen Res 2018; 13:643-644. [PMID: 29722312 PMCID: PMC5950670 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.230287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- David Parker
- Department of Physiology, Neuroscience and Development, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Thomas J McClelland
- Department of Physiology, Neuroscience and Development, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| |
Collapse
|
103
|
Ryu Y, Ogata T, Nagao M, Sawada Y, Nishimura R, Fujita N. Effects of Treadmill Training Combined with Serotonergic Interventions on Spasticity after Contusive Spinal Cord Injury. J Neurotrauma 2018; 35:1358-1366. [PMID: 29336209 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2017.5400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Spasticity usually emerges during the course of recovery from spinal cord injury (SCI). While medications and physical rehabilitation are prescribed to alleviate spastic symptoms, the insufficiency of their effects remains an important problem to be addressed. Given the challenges associated with increasing the dose of medication, we hypothesized that a combination therapy with medication and physical rehabilitation can be effective. Therefore, we examined the effects of treadmill training (TMT) along with serotonergic medication using a spastic rat model after contusive injury. Spasticity-strong SCI rats were selected 4 weeks after SCI and received one of the following interventions for 2 weeks: only TMT, TMT with fluoxetine (a selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor), TMT with cyproheptadine (a 5-HT2 receptor antagonist), only fluoxetine, or only cyproheptadine. We performed the swimming test to quantify the frequency of spastic behaviors. We also evaluated hindlimb locomotor functions every week. At the end of the intervention, we examined the Hoffman reflex from the plantar muscle and the immunoreactivity of the 5-HT2A receptor in spinal cord tissues. While the TMT group and cyproheptadine-treated groups showed decreased spastic behaviors and reduction in spinal hyperreflexia, the fluoxetine-treated group showed the opposite effect, even with TMT. Moreover, TMT suppressed the expression of the 5-HT2A receptor in the lumbar spinal motor neurons, while cyproheptadine treatment did not change it. We did not observe any differences in locomotor functions between the groups. Taken together, our findings indicate that TMT and cyproheptadine significantly alleviated spastic symptoms, but did not show synergistic or additive effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youngjae Ryu
- 1 Department of Veterinary Surgery, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo , Tokyo, Japan .,2 Department of Rehabilitation for the Movement Functions, Research Institute , National Rehabilitation Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Toru Ogata
- 2 Department of Rehabilitation for the Movement Functions, Research Institute , National Rehabilitation Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Motoshi Nagao
- 2 Department of Rehabilitation for the Movement Functions, Research Institute , National Rehabilitation Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Sawada
- 2 Department of Rehabilitation for the Movement Functions, Research Institute , National Rehabilitation Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Ryohei Nishimura
- 1 Department of Veterinary Surgery, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo , Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naoki Fujita
- 1 Department of Veterinary Surgery, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo , Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
104
|
Lyle MA, Nichols TR. Patterns of intermuscular inhibitory force feedback across cat hindlimbs suggest a flexible system for regulating whole limb mechanics. J Neurophysiol 2018; 119:668-678. [PMID: 29142095 PMCID: PMC5867384 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00617.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2017] [Revised: 10/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Prior work has suggested that Golgi tendon organ feedback, via its distributed network linking muscles spanning all joints, could be used by the nervous system to help regulate whole limb mechanics if appropriately organized. We tested this hypothesis by characterizing the patterns of intermuscular force-dependent feedback between the primary extensor muscles spanning the knee, ankle, and toes in decerebrate cat hindlimbs. Intermuscular force feedback was evaluated by stretching tendons of selected muscles in isolation and in pairwise combinations and then measuring the resulting force-dependent intermuscular interactions. The relative inhibitory feedback between extensor muscles was examined, as well as symmetry of the interactions across limbs. Differences in the directional biases of inhibitory feedback were observed across cats, with three patterns identified as points on a spectrum: pattern 1, directional bias of inhibitory feedback onto the ankle extensors and toe flexors; pattern 2, convergence of inhibitory feedback onto ankle extensors and mostly balanced inhibitory feedback between vastus muscle group and flexor hallucis longus, and pattern 3, directional bias of inhibitory feedback onto ankle and knee extensors. The patterns of inhibitory feedback, while different across cats, were symmetric across limbs of individual cats. The variable but structured distribution of force feedback across cat hindlimbs provides preliminary evidence that inhibitory force feedback could be a regulated neural control variable. We propose the directional biases of inhibitory feedback observed experimentally could provide important task-dependent benefits, such as directionally appropriate joint compliance, joint coupling, and compensation for nonuniform inertia. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Feedback from Golgi tendon organs project widely among extensor motor nuclei in the spinal cord. The distributed nature of force feedback suggests these pathways contribute to the global regulation of limb mechanics. Analysis of this network in individual animals indicates that the strengths of these pathways can be reorganized appropriately for a variety of motor tasks, including level walking, slope walking, and landing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Lyle
- School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology , Atlanta, Georgia
| | - T Richard Nichols
- School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology , Atlanta, Georgia
| |
Collapse
|
105
|
Zhao BL, Li WT, Zhou XH, Wu SQ, Cao HS, Bao ZR, An LB. Effective robotic assistive pattern of treadmill training for spinal cord injury in a rat model. Exp Ther Med 2018; 15:3283-3294. [PMID: 29545846 PMCID: PMC5840943 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2018.5822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to establish an effective robotic assistive stepping pattern of body-weight-supported treadmill training based on a rat spinal cord injury (SCI) model and assess the effect by comparing this with another frequently used assistive stepping pattern. The recorded stepping patterns of both hind limbs of trained intact rats were edited to establish a 30-sec playback normal rat stepping pattern (NRSP). Step features (step length, step height, step number and swing duration), BBB scores, latencies, and amplitudes of the transcranial electrical motor-evoked potentials (tceMEPs) and neurofilament 200 (NF200) expression in the spinal cord lesion area during and after 3 weeks of body-weight-supported treadmill training (BWSTT) were compared in rats with spinal contusion receiving NRSP assistance (NRSPA) and those that received manual assistance (MA). Hind limb stepping performance among rats receiving NRSPA during BWSTT was greater than that among rats receiving MA in terms of longer step length, taller step height, and longer swing duration. Furthermore a higher BBB score was also indicated. The rats in the NRSPA group achieved superior results in the tceMEPs assessment and greater NF200 expression in the spinal cord lesion area compared with the rats in the MA group. These findings suggest NRSPA was an effective assistive pattern of treadmill training compared with MA based on the rat SCI model and this approach could be used as a new platform for animal experiments for better understanding the mechanisms of SCI rehabilitation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo-Lun Zhao
- Department of Clinical Nursing, School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Tao Li
- Department of Clinical Nursing, School of Nursing, Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning 116622, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Hua Zhou
- Department of Clinical Nursing, School of Nursing, Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning 116622, P.R. China
| | - Su-Qian Wu
- Department of Clinical Nursing, School of Nursing, Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning 116622, P.R. China
| | - Hong-Shi Cao
- Department of Clinical Nursing, School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Zhu-Ren Bao
- Department of Clinical Nursing, School of Nursing, Dalian University, Dalian, Liaoning 116622, P.R. China
| | - Li-Bin An
- Department of Clinical Nursing, School of Nursing, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
106
|
Moraud EM, von Zitzewitz J, Miehlbradt J, Wurth S, Formento E, DiGiovanna J, Capogrosso M, Courtine G, Micera S. Closed-loop control of trunk posture improves locomotion through the regulation of leg proprioceptive feedback after spinal cord injury. Sci Rep 2018; 8:76. [PMID: 29311614 PMCID: PMC5758718 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-18293-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
After spinal cord injury (SCI), sensory feedback circuits critically contribute to leg motor execution. Compelled by the importance to engage these circuits during gait rehabilitation, assistive robotics and training protocols have primarily focused on guiding leg movements to reinforce sensory feedback. Despite the importance of trunk postural dynamics on gait and balance, trunk assistance has comparatively received little attention. Typically, trunk movements are either constrained within bodyweight support systems, or manually adjusted by therapists. Here, we show that real-time control of trunk posture re-established dynamic balance amongst bilateral proprioceptive feedback circuits, and thereby restored left-right symmetry, loading and stepping consistency in rats with severe SCI. We developed a robotic system that adjusts mediolateral trunk posture during locomotion. This system uncovered robust relationships between trunk orientation and the modulation of bilateral leg kinematics and muscle activity. Computer simulations suggested that these modulations emerged from corrections in the balance between flexor- and extensor-related proprioceptive feedback. We leveraged this knowledge to engineer control policies that regulate trunk orientation and postural sway in real-time. This dynamical postural interface immediately improved stepping quality in all rats regardless of broad differences in deficits. These results emphasize the importance of trunk regulation to optimize performance during rehabilitation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Martin Moraud
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), CH-1202, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Joachim von Zitzewitz
- International Paraplegic Foundation Chair in Spinal Cord Repair, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), CH-1202, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jenifer Miehlbradt
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), CH-1202, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sophie Wurth
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), CH-1202, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Emanuele Formento
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), CH-1202, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jack DiGiovanna
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), CH-1202, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Grégoire Courtine
- International Paraplegic Foundation Chair in Spinal Cord Repair, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), CH-1202, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Silvestro Micera
- Bertarelli Foundation Chair in Translational Neuroengineering, Center for Neuroprosthetics and Institute of Bioengineering, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), CH-1202, Geneva, Switzerland.,The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, 56127, Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
107
|
Radial Glial Fibers Promote Neuronal Migration and Functional Recovery after Neonatal Brain Injury. Cell Stem Cell 2018; 22:128-137.e9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.stem.2017.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2017] [Revised: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
108
|
Khalki L, Sadlaoud K, Lerond J, Coq JO, Brezun JM, Vinay L, Coulon P, Bras H. Changes in innervation of lumbar motoneurons and organization of premotor network following training of transected adult rats. Exp Neurol 2018; 299:1-14. [DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2017.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Revised: 09/04/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
|
109
|
Li J, Chen S, Zhao Z, Luo Y, Hou Y, Li H, He L, Zhou L, Wu W. Effect of VEGF on Inflammatory Regulation, Neural Survival, and Functional Improvement in Rats following a Complete Spinal Cord Transection. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:381. [PMID: 29238292 PMCID: PMC5712574 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
After complete transection of the thoracic spinal segment, neonatal rats exhibit spontaneous locomotor recovery of hindlimbs, but this recovery is not found in adult rats after similar injury. The potential mechanism related to the difference in recovery of neonatal and adult rats remains unknown. In this study, 342 animals were analyzed. The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) level in spinal segments below injury sites was significantly higher in postnatal day 1 rats (P1) compared with 28-day-old adult rats (P28) following a complete T9 transection. VEGF administration in P28 rats with T9 transection significantly improved the functional recovery; by contrast, treatment with VEGF receptor inhibitors in P1 rats with T9 transection slowed down the spontaneous functional recovery. Results showed more neurons reduced in the lumbar spinal cord and worse local neural network reorganization below injury sites in P28 rats than those in P1 rats. Transynaptic tracing with pseudorabies virus and double immunofluorescence analysis indicated that VEGF treatment in P28 rats alleviated the reduced number of neurons and improved their network reorganization. VEGF inhibition in neonates resulted in high neuronal death rate and deteriorated network reorganization. In in vivo studies, T9 transection induced less increase in the number of microglia in the spinal cord in P1 animals than P28 animals. VEGF treatment reduced the increase in microglial cells in P28 animals. VEGF administration in cultured spinal motoneurons prevented lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neuronal death and facilitated neurite growth. Western blots of the samples of lumbar spinal cord after spinal transection and cultured spinal motoneurons showed a lower level of Erk1/2 phosphorylation after the injury or LPS induction compared with that in the control. The phosphorylation level increased after VEGF treatment. In conclusion, VEGF is a critical mediator involved in functional recovery after spinal transection and can be considered a potential target for clinical therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Anatomy, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Shuangxi Chen
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhikai Zhao
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yunhao Luo
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuhui Hou
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Heng Li
- Department of Anatomy, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Liumin He
- Key Laboratory of Biomaterials of Guangdong Higher Education Institutes, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Libing Zhou
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wutian Wu
- Guangdong-Hongkong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Ministry of Education CNS Regeneration Collaborative Joint Laboratory, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Anatomy, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- Re-Stem Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Suzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
110
|
Slow Versus Fast Robot-Assisted Locomotor Training After Severe Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2017; 96:S165-S170. [PMID: 28796648 DOI: 10.1097/phm.0000000000000810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Robot-assisted locomotor training on a bodyweight-supported treadmill is a rehabilitation intervention that compels repetitive practice of gait movements. Standard treadmill speed may elicit rhythmic movements generated primarily by spinal circuits. Slower-than-standard treadmill speed may elicit discrete movements, which are more complex than rhythmic movements and involve cortical areas. OBJECTIVE Compare effects of fast (i.e., rhythmic) versus slow (i.e., discrete) robot-assisted locomotor training on a bodyweight-supported treadmill in subjects with chronic, severe gait deficit after stroke. METHODS Subjects (N = 18) were randomized to receive 30 sessions (5 d/wk) of either fast or slow robot-assisted locomotor training on a bodyweight-supported treadmill in an inpatient setting. Functional ambulation category, time up and go, 6-min walk test, 10-m walk test, Berg Balance Scale, and Fugl-Meyer Assessment were administered at baseline and postintervention. RESULTS The slow group had statistically significant improvement on functional ambulation category (first quartile-third quartile, P = 0.004), 6-min walk test (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.8 to 49.0, P = 0.040), Berg Balance Scale (95% CI = 7.4 to 14.8, P < 0.0001), time up and go (95% CI = -79.1 to 5.0, P < 0.0030), and Fugl-Meyer Assessment (95% CI = 24.1 to 45.1, P < 0.0001). The fast group had statistically significant improvement on Berg Balance Scale (95% CI = 1.5 to 10.5, P = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS In initial stages of robot-assisted locomotor training on a bodyweight-supported treadmill after severe stroke, slow training targeting discrete movement may yield greater benefit than fast training.
Collapse
|
111
|
Anglister L, Cherniak M, Lev-Tov A. Ascending pathways that mediate cholinergic modulation of lumbar motor activity. J Neurochem 2017; 142 Suppl 2:82-89. [PMID: 28791705 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.14065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Revised: 05/01/2017] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Deciphering neuronal pathways that reactivate spinal central pattern generators (CPGs) and modulate the activity of spinal motoneurons in mammals in the absence of supraspinal control is important for understanding of neural control of movement and for developing novel therapeutic approaches to improve the mobility of spinal cord injury patients. Previously, we showed that the sacral and lumbar cholinergic system could potently modulate the locomotor CPGs in newborn rodents. Here, we review these and our more recent studies of sacral relay neurons with lumbar projections to the locomotor CPGs and to lumbar motoneurons and demonstrate that sacral and lumbar cholinergic components have the capacity to control the frequency of the locomotor CPGs and at the same time the motor output of the activated lumbar motoneurons during motor behavior. A model describing the suggested ascending sacro-lumbar connectivity involved in modulation of the locomotor rhythm by sacral cholinergic components is proposed and discussed. This is an article for the special issue XVth International Symposium on Cholinergic Mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lili Anglister
- Department of Medical Neurobiology, IMRIC, the Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Meir Cherniak
- Department of Medical Neurobiology, IMRIC, the Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Aharon Lev-Tov
- Department of Medical Neurobiology, IMRIC, the Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
112
|
Saunders NR, Dziegielewska KM, Whish SC, Hinds LA, Wheaton BJ, Huang Y, Henry S, Habgood MD. A bipedal mammalian model for spinal cord injury research: The tammar wallaby. F1000Res 2017; 6:921. [PMID: 28721206 PMCID: PMC5497825 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.11712.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Most animal studies of spinal cord injury are conducted in quadrupeds, usually rodents. It is unclear to what extent functional results from such studies can be translated to bipedal species such as humans because bipedal and quadrupedal locomotion involve very different patterns of spinal control of muscle coordination. Bipedalism requires upright trunk stability and coordinated postural muscle control; it has been suggested that peripheral sensory input is less important in humans than quadrupeds for recovery of locomotion following spinal injury. Methods: We used an Australian macropod marsupial, the tammar wallaby
(Macropuseugenii), because tammars exhibit an upright trunk posture, human-like alternating hindlimb movement when swimming and bipedal over-ground locomotion. Regulation of their muscle movements is more similar to humans than quadrupeds. At different postnatal (P) days (P7–60) tammars received a complete mid-thoracic spinal cord transection. Morphological repair, as well as functional use of hind limbs, was studied up to the time of their pouch exit. Results: Growth of axons across the lesion restored supraspinal innervation in animals injured up to 3 weeks of age but not in animals injured after 6 weeks of age. At initial pouch exit (P180), the young injured at P7-21 were able to hop on their hind limbs similar to age-matched controls and to swim albeit with a different stroke. Those animals injured at P40-45 appeared to be incapable of normal use of hind limbs even while still in the pouch. Conclusions: Data indicate that the characteristic over-ground locomotion of tammars provides a model in which regrowth of supraspinal connections across the site of injury can be studied in a bipedal animal. Forelimb weight-bearing motion and peripheral sensory input appear not to compensate for lack of hindlimb control, as occurs in quadrupeds. Tammars may be a more appropriate model for studies of therapeutic interventions relevant to humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Norman R Saunders
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Katarzyna M Dziegielewska
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Sophie C Whish
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Lyn A Hinds
- Health and Biosecurity Business Unit, Commonwealth Science and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
| | - Benjamin J Wheaton
- Centre for Evolutionary and Theoretical Immunology, The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Yifan Huang
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Steve Henry
- Health and Biosecurity Business Unit, Commonwealth Science and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
| | - Mark D Habgood
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3010, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
113
|
Gad P, Gerasimenko Y, Zdunowski S, Turner A, Sayenko D, Lu DC, Edgerton VR. Weight Bearing Over-ground Stepping in an Exoskeleton with Non-invasive Spinal Cord Neuromodulation after Motor Complete Paraplegia. Front Neurosci 2017. [PMID: 28642680 PMCID: PMC5462970 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2017.00333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
We asked whether coordinated voluntary movement of the lower limbs could be regained in an individual having been completely paralyzed (>4 year) and completely absent of vision (>15 year) using two novel strategies-transcutaneous electrical spinal cord stimulation at selected sites over the spine as well as pharmacological neuromodulation by buspirone. We also asked whether these neuromodulatory strategies could facilitate stepping assisted by an exoskeleton (EKSO, EKSO Bionics, CA) that is designed so that the subject can voluntarily complement the work being performed by the exoskeleton. We found that spinal cord stimulation and drug enhanced the level of effort that the subject could generate while stepping in the exoskeleton. In addition, stimulation improved the coordination patterns of the lower limb muscles resulting in a more continuous, smooth stepping motion in the exoskeleton along with changes in autonomic functions including cardiovascular and thermoregulation. Based on these data from this case study it appears that there is considerable potential for positive synergistic effects after complete paralysis by combining the over-ground step training in an exoskeleton, combined with transcutaneous electrical spinal cord stimulation either without or with pharmacological modulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Parag Gad
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los AngelesLos Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Yury Gerasimenko
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los AngelesLos Angeles, CA, United States.,Pavlov Institute of PhysiologySt. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Sharon Zdunowski
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los AngelesLos Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Amanda Turner
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los AngelesLos Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Dimitry Sayenko
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los AngelesLos Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Daniel C Lu
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California, Los AngelesLos Angeles, CA, United States.,Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los AngelesLos Angeles, CA, United States
| | - V Reggie Edgerton
- Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California, Los AngelesLos Angeles, CA, United States.,Department of Neurosurgery, University of California, Los AngelesLos Angeles, CA, United States.,Brain Research Institute, University of California, Los AngelesLos Angeles, CA, United States.,Department of Neurobiology, University of California, Los AngelesLos Angeles, CA, United States.,Institut Guttmann, Hospital de Neurorehabilitació, Institut Universitari adscrit a la Universitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBarcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
114
|
Zhao C, Song W, Rao JS, Zhao W, Wei RH, Zhou X, Tian PY, Yang ZY, Li XG. Combination of kinematic analyses and diffusion tensor tractrography to evaluate the residual motor functions in spinal cord-hemisected monkeys. J Med Primatol 2017; 46:239-247. [PMID: 28543057 DOI: 10.1111/jmp.12276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spinal cord injury (SCI) causes loss of locomotor functions. Nowadays, the relationship between the residual locomotion after SCI and the diffusion tensor tractography (DTT) results still remains unclear. METHODS Four rhesus monkeys were suffered thoracic cord hemisection. Kinematic evaluation and DTT were performed prior- and post-SCI (6 and 12 weeks). The longitudinal changes of gait parameters and the DTT parameters were analyzed for the injury-contralateral hindlimb. The correlations between gaits and DTT parameters were also investigated. RESULTS Almost gait parameters significantly changed after SCI, meanwhile, the caudal-rostral connection rate of DTT showed negative correlation with all gait parameters, demonstrating that the locomotor changes of the injury-contralateral hindlimb were associated with the ratio of residual fibers. CONCLUSIONS The combinatory use of gait analysis and DTT has been demonstrated to be sensitive to locomotion changes after SCI, and may therefore have potential applications in the pre-clinical studies of SCI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Can Zhao
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and Neural Regeneration, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Song
- Rehabilitation Engineering Research Institute, China Rehabilitation Research Center, Beijing, China
| | - Jia-Sheng Rao
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and Neural Regeneration, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Wen Zhao
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Rui-Han Wei
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and Neural Regeneration, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Xia Zhou
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and Neural Regeneration, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Peng-Yu Tian
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and Neural Regeneration, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhao-Yang Yang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiao-Guang Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Biomaterials and Neural Regeneration, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, China.,Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
115
|
Keller A, Rees K, Prince D, Morehouse J, Shum-Siu A, Magnuson D. Dynamic "Range of Motion" Hindlimb Stretching Disrupts Locomotor Function in Rats with Moderate Subacute Spinal Cord Injuries. J Neurotrauma 2017; 34:2086-2091. [PMID: 28288544 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2016.4951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Joint contractures and spasticity are two common secondary complications of a severe spinal cord injury (SCI), which can significantly reduce quality of life, and stretching is one of the top strategies for rehabilitation of these complications. We have previously shown that a daily static stretching protocol administered to rats at either acute or chronic time points after a moderate or moderate-severe T10 SCI significantly disrupts their hindlimb locomotor function. The objective of the current study was to examine the effects of dynamic range of motion (ROM) stretching on the locomotor function of rats with SCI as an alternative to static stretching. Starting at 6 weeks post-injury (T10 moderate contusion) eight adult Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to hindlimb stretching for 4 weeks. Our standard stretching protocol (six maneuvers to stretch the major hindlimb muscle groups) was modified from 1 min static stretch-and-hold at the end ROM of each stretch position to a dynamic 2 sec hold, 1 sec release rhythm repeated for a duration of 1 min. Four weeks of daily (5 days/week) dynamic stretching led to significant disruption of locomotor function as assessed by the Basso, Beattie, Bresnahan (BBB) Open Field Locomotor Scale and three-dimensional (3D) kinematic and gait analyses. In addition, we identified and analyzed an apparently novel hindlimb response to dynamic stretch that resembles human clonus. The results of the current study extend the observation of the stretching phenomenon to a new modality of stretching that is also commonly used in SCI rehabilitation. Although mechanisms and clinical relevance still need to be established, our findings continue to raise concerns that stretching as a therapy can potentially hinder aspects of locomotor recovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Keller
- 1 Department of Physiology, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky.,2 Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Kathlene Rees
- 3 J.B. Speed School of Engineering, Department of Bioengineering, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Daniella Prince
- 2 Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky.,4 Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Johnny Morehouse
- 2 Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky.,4 Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Alice Shum-Siu
- 2 Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky.,4 Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky
| | - David Magnuson
- 2 Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky.,4 Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky
| |
Collapse
|
116
|
Shah PK, Lavrov I. Spinal Epidural Stimulation Strategies: Clinical Implications of Locomotor Studies in Spinal Rats. Neuroscientist 2017; 23:664-680. [PMID: 28345483 DOI: 10.1177/1073858417699554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Significant advancements in spinal epidural stimulation (ES) strategies to enable volitional motor control in persons with a complete spinal cord injury (SCI) have generated much excitement in the field of neurorehabilitation. Still, an obvious gap lies in the ability of ES to effectively generate a robust locomotor stepping response after a complete SCI in rodents, but not in humans. In order to reveal potential discrepancies between rodent and human studies that account for this void, in this review, we summarize the findings of studies that have utilized ES strategies to enable successful hindlimb stepping in spinal rats. Recent clinical and preclinical evidence indicates that motor training with ES plays a crucial role in tuning spinal neural circuitry to generate meaningful motor output. Concurrently administered pharmacology can also facilitate the circuitry to provide near optimal motor performance in SCI rats. However, as of today, the evidence for pharmacological agents to enhance motor function in persons with complete SCI is insignificant. These and other recent findings discussed in this review provide insight into addressing the translational gap, guide the design of relevant preclinical experiments, and facilitate development of new approaches for motor recovery in patients with complete SCIs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Prithvi K Shah
- 1 Division of Rehabilitation Sciences, School of Health Technology and Management, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA.,2 Department of Neurobiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Igor Lavrov
- 3 Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.,4 Department of Physiology and Biomedical Engineering, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.,5 Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
117
|
Frigon A. The neural control of interlimb coordination during mammalian locomotion. J Neurophysiol 2017; 117:2224-2241. [PMID: 28298308 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00978.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Revised: 03/02/2017] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuronal networks within the spinal cord directly control rhythmic movements of the arms/forelimbs and legs/hindlimbs during locomotion in mammals. For an effective locomotion, these networks must be flexibly coordinated to allow for various gait patterns and independent use of the arms/forelimbs. This coordination can be accomplished by mechanisms intrinsic to the spinal cord, somatosensory feedback from the limbs, and various supraspinal pathways. Incomplete spinal cord injury disrupts some of the pathways and structures involved in interlimb coordination, often leading to a disruption in the coordination between the arms/forelimbs and legs/hindlimbs in animal models and in humans. However, experimental spinal lesions in animal models to uncover the mechanisms coordinating the limbs have limitations due to compensatory mechanisms and strategies, redundant systems of control, and plasticity within remaining circuits. The purpose of this review is to provide a general overview and critical discussion of experimental studies that have investigated the neural mechanisms involved in coordinating the arms/forelimbs and legs/hindlimbs during mammalian locomotion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alain Frigon
- Department of Pharmacology-Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
118
|
Nonlinear Modulation of Cutaneous Reflexes with Increasing Speed of Locomotion in Spinal Cats. J Neurosci 2017; 37:3896-3912. [PMID: 28292829 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.3042-16.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Revised: 03/05/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous reflexes are important for responding rapidly to perturbations, correcting limb trajectory, and strengthening support. During locomotion, they are modulated by phase to generate functionally appropriate responses. The goal of the present study was to determine whether cutaneous reflexes and their phase-dependent modulation are altered with increasing speed and if this is accomplished at the spinal level. Four adult cats that recovered stable hindlimb locomotion after spinal transection were implanted with electrodes to record hindlimb muscle activity chronically and to stimulate the superficial peroneal nerve electrically to evoke cutaneous reflexes. The speed-dependent modulation of cutaneous reflexes was assessed by evoking and characterizing ipsilateral and contralateral responses in semitendinosus, vastus lateralis, and lateral gastrocnemius muscles at four treadmill speeds: 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, and 0.8 m/s. The amplitudes of ipsilateral and contralateral responses were largest at intermediate speeds of 0.4 and 0.6 m/s, followed by the slowest and fastest speeds of 0.2 and 0.8 m/s, respectively. The phase-dependent modulation of reflexes was maintained across speeds, with ipsilateral and contralateral responses peaking during the stance-to-swing transition and swing phase of the ipsilateral limb or midstance of the contralateral limb. Reflex modulation across speeds also correlated with the spatial symmetry of the locomotor pattern, but not with temporal symmetry. That the cutaneous reflex amplitude in all muscles was similarly modulated with increasing speed independently of the background level of muscle activity is consistent with a generalized premotoneuronal spinal control mechanism that could help to stabilize the locomotor pattern when changing speed.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT When walking, receptors located in the skin respond to mechanical pressure and send signals to the CNS to correct the trajectory of the limb and to reinforce weight support. These signals produce different responses, or reflexes, if they occur when the foot is contacting the ground or in the air. This is known as phase-dependent modulation of reflexes. However, when walking at faster speeds, we do not know if and how these reflexes are changed. In the present study, we show that reflexes from the skin are modulated with speed and that this is controlled at the level of the spinal cord. This modulation could be important in preventing sensory signals from destabilizing the walking pattern.
Collapse
|
119
|
Guo Y, Ma Y, Pan YL, Zheng SY, Wang JW, Huang GC. Jisuikang, a Chinese herbal formula, increases neurotrophic factor expression and promotes the recovery of neurological function after spinal cord injury. Neural Regen Res 2017; 12:1519-1528. [PMID: 29089999 PMCID: PMC5649474 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.215264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The Chinese medicine compound, Jisuikang, can promote recovery of neurological function by inhibiting lipid peroxidation, scavenging oxygen free radicals, and effectively improving the local microenvironment after spinal cord injury. However, the mechanism remains unclear. Thus, we established a rat model of acute spinal cord injury using a modified version of Allen's method. Jisuikang (50, 25, and 12.5 g/kg/d) and prednisolone were administered 30 minutes after anesthesia. Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan locomotor scale scores and the oblique board test showed improved motor function recovery in the prednisone group and moderate-dose Jisuikang group compared with the other groups at 3-7 days post-injury. The rats in the moderate-dose Jisuikang group recovered best at 14 days post-injury. Hematoxylin-eosin staining and transmission electron microscopy showed that the survival rate of neurons in treatment groups increased after 3-7 days of administration. Further, the structure of neurons and glial cells was more distinct, especially in prednisolone and moderate-dose Jisuikang groups. Western blot assay and immunohistochemistry showed that expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in injured segments was maintained at a high level after 7-14 days of treatment. In contrast, expression of nerve growth factor (NGF) was down-regulated at 7 days after spinal cord injury. Real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction showed that expression of BDNF and NGF mRNA was induced in injured segments by prednisolone and Jisuikang. At 3-7 days after injury, the effect of prednisolone was greater, while 14 days after injury, the effect of moderate-dose Jisuikang was greater. These results confirm that Jisuikang can upregulate BDNF and NGF expression for a prolonged period after spinal cord injury and promote repair of acute spinal cord injury, with its effect being similar to prednisolone.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yang Guo
- Institute of Traumatology & Orthopedics and Laboratory of New Techniques of Restoration & Reconstruction of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yong Ma
- Institute of Traumatology & Orthopedics and Laboratory of New Techniques of Restoration & Reconstruction of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China.,Department of Traumatology & Orthopedics, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ya-Lan Pan
- Institute of Traumatology & Orthopedics and Laboratory of New Techniques of Restoration & Reconstruction of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Su-Yang Zheng
- Institute of Traumatology & Orthopedics and Laboratory of New Techniques of Restoration & Reconstruction of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Jian-Wei Wang
- Department of Traumatology & Orthopedics, Wuxi Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Wuxi, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Gui-Cheng Huang
- Institute of Traumatology & Orthopedics and Laboratory of New Techniques of Restoration & Reconstruction of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
120
|
Shaping the Output of Lumbar Flexor Motoneurons by Sacral Neuronal Networks. J Neurosci 2016; 37:1294-1311. [PMID: 28025254 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2213-16.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Revised: 12/11/2016] [Accepted: 12/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability to improve motor function in spinal cord injury patients by reactivating spinal central pattern generators (CPGs) requires the elucidation of neurons and pathways involved in activation and modulation of spinal networks in accessible experimental models. Previously we reported on adrenoceptor-dependent sacral control of lumbar flexor motoneuron firing in newborn rats. The current work focuses on clarification of the circuitry and connectivity involved in this unique modulation and its potential use. Using surgical manipulations of the spinal gray and white matter, electrophysiological recordings, and confocal microscopy mapping, we found that methoxamine (METH) activation of sacral networks within the ventral aspect of S2 segments was sufficient to produce alternating rhythmic bursting (0.15-1 Hz) in lumbar flexor motoneurons. This lumbar rhythm depended on continuity of the ventral funiculus (VF) along the S2-L2 segments. Interrupting the VF abolished the rhythm and replaced it by slow unstable bursting. Calcium imaging of S1-S2 neurons, back-labeled via the VF, revealed that ∼40% responded to METH, mostly by rhythmic firing. All uncrossed projecting METH responders and ∼70% of crossed projecting METH responders fired with the concurrent ipsilateral motor output, while the rest (∼30%) fired with the contralateral motor output. We suggest that METH-activated sacral CPGs excite ventral clusters of sacral VF neurons to deliver the ascending drive required for direct rhythmic activation of lumbar flexor motoneurons. The capacity of noradrenergic-activated sacral CPGs to modulate the activity of lumbar networks via sacral VF neurons provides a novel way to recruit rostral lumbar motoneurons and modulate the output required to execute various motor behaviors. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Spinal central pattern generators (CPGs) produce the rhythmic output required for coordinating stepping and stabilizing the body axis during movements. Electrical stimulation and exogenous drugs can reactivate the spinal CPGs and improve the motor function in the absence of descending supraspinal control. Since the body-stabilizing sacral networks can activate and modulate the limb-moving lumbar circuitry, it is important to clarify the functional organization of sacral and lumbar networks and their linking pathways. Here we decipher the ascending circuitry linking adrenoceptor-activated sacral CPGs and lumbar flexor motoneurons, thereby providing novel insights into mechanisms by which sacral circuitry recruits lumbar flexors, and enhances the motor output during lumbar afferent-induced locomotor rhythms. Moreover, our findings might help to improve drug/electrical stimulation-based therapy to accelerate locomotor-based rehabilitation.
Collapse
|
121
|
Field-Fote EC, Yang JF, Basso DM, Gorassini MA. Supraspinal Control Predicts Locomotor Function and Forecasts Responsiveness to Training after Spinal Cord Injury. J Neurotrauma 2016; 34:1813-1825. [PMID: 27673569 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2016.4565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Restoration of walking ability is an area of great interest in the rehabilitation of persons with spinal cord injury. Because many cortical, subcortical, and spinal neural centers contribute to locomotor function, it is important that intervention strategies be designed to target neural elements at all levels of the neuraxis that are important for walking ability. While to date most strategies have focused on activation of spinal circuits, more recent studies are investigating the value of engaging supraspinal circuits. Despite the apparent potential of pharmacological, biological, and genetic approaches, as yet none has proved more effective than physical therapeutic rehabilitation strategies. By making optimal use of the potential of the nervous system to respond to training, strategies can be developed that meet the unique needs of each person. To complement the development of optimal training interventions, it is valuable to have the ability to predict future walking function based on early clinical presentation, and to forecast responsiveness to training. A number of clinical prediction rules and association models based on common clinical measures have been developed with the intent, respectively, to predict future walking function based on early clinical presentation, and to delineate characteristics associated with responsiveness to training. Further, a number of variables that are correlated with walking function have been identified. Not surprisingly, most of these prediction rules, association models, and correlated variables incorporate measures of volitional lower extremity strength, illustrating the important influence of supraspinal centers in the production of walking behavior in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edelle C Field-Fote
- 1 Shepherd Center, Crawford Research Institute and Division of Physical Therapy, Emory University , Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jaynie F Yang
- 2 Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine and Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Alberta , Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - D Michele Basso
- 3 School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University , Columbus, Ohio
| | - Monica A Gorassini
- 4 Department of Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta , Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
122
|
Bui TV, Stifani N, Akay T, Brownstone RM. Spinal microcircuits comprising dI3 interneurons are necessary for motor functional recovery following spinal cord transection. eLife 2016; 5. [PMID: 27977000 PMCID: PMC5218533 DOI: 10.7554/elife.21715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The spinal cord has the capacity to coordinate motor activities such as locomotion. Following spinal transection, functional activity can be regained, to a degree, following motor training. To identify microcircuits involved in this recovery, we studied a population of mouse spinal interneurons known to receive direct afferent inputs and project to intermediate and ventral regions of the spinal cord. We demonstrate that while dI3 interneurons are not necessary for normal locomotor activity, locomotor circuits rhythmically inhibit them and dI3 interneurons can activate these circuits. Removing dI3 interneurons from spinal microcircuits by eliminating their synaptic transmission left locomotion more or less unchanged, but abolished functional recovery, indicating that dI3 interneurons are a necessary cellular substrate for motor system plasticity following transection. We suggest that dI3 interneurons compare inputs from locomotor circuits with sensory afferent inputs to compute sensory prediction errors that then modify locomotor circuits to effect motor recovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tuan V Bui
- Department of Biology, Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Nicolas Stifani
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Turgay Akay
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Robert M Brownstone
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada.,Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada.,Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders, Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
123
|
Côté MP, Murray M, Lemay MA. Rehabilitation Strategies after Spinal Cord Injury: Inquiry into the Mechanisms of Success and Failure. J Neurotrauma 2016; 34:1841-1857. [PMID: 27762657 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2016.4577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Body-weight supported locomotor training (BWST) promotes recovery of load-bearing stepping in lower mammals, but its efficacy in individuals with a spinal cord injury (SCI) is limited and highly dependent on injury severity. While animal models with complete spinal transections recover stepping with step-training, motor complete SCI individuals do not, despite similarly intensive training. In this review, we examine the significant differences between humans and animal models that may explain this discrepancy in the results obtained with BWST. We also summarize the known effects of SCI and locomotor training on the muscular, motoneuronal, interneuronal, and supraspinal systems in human and non-human models of SCI and address the potential causes for failure to translate to the clinic. The evidence points to a deficiency in neuronal activation as the mechanism of failure, rather than muscular insufficiency. While motoneuronal and interneuronal systems cannot be directly probed in humans, the changes brought upon by step-training in SCI animal models suggest a beneficial re-organization of the systems' responsiveness to descending and afferent feedback that support locomotor recovery. The literature on partial lesions in humans and animal models clearly demonstrate a greater dependency on supraspinal input to the lumbar cord in humans than in non-human mammals for locomotion. Recent results with epidural stimulation that activates the lumbar interneuronal networks and/or increases the overall excitability of the locomotor centers suggest that these centers are much more dependent on the supraspinal tonic drive in humans. Sensory feedback shapes the locomotor output in animal models but does not appear to be sufficient to drive it in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Pascale Côté
- 1 Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Marion Murray
- 1 Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Drexel University College of Medicine , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Michel A Lemay
- 2 Department of Bioengineering, Temple University , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| |
Collapse
|
124
|
Raithatha R, Carrico C, Powell ES, Westgate PM, Chelette Ii KC, Lee K, Dunsmore L, Salles S, Sawaki L. Non-invasive brain stimulation and robot-assisted gait training after incomplete spinal cord injury: A randomized pilot study. NeuroRehabilitation 2016; 38:15-25. [PMID: 26889794 DOI: 10.3233/nre-151291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Locomotor training with a robot-assisted gait orthosis (LT-RGO) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) are interventions that can significantly enhance motor performance after spinal cord injury (SCI). No studies have investigated whether combining these interventions enhances lower extremity motor function following SCI. OBJECTIVE Determine whether active tDCS paired with LT-RGO improves lower extremity motor function more than a sham condition, in subjects with motor incomplete SCI. METHODS Fifteen adults with SCI received 36 sessions of either active (n = 9) or sham (n = 6) tDCS (20 minutes) preceding LT-RGO (1 hour). Outcome measures included manual muscle testing (MMT; primary outcome measure); 6-Minute Walk Test (6MinWT); 10-Meter Walk Test (10MWT); Timed Up and Go Test (TUG); Berg Balance Scale (BBS); and Spinal Cord Independence Measure-III (SCIM-III). RESULTS MMT showed significant improvements after active tDCS, with the most pronounced improvement in the right lower extremity. 10MWT, 6MinWT, and BBS showed improvement for both groups. TUG and SCIM-III showed improvement only for the sham tDCS group. CONCLUSION Pairing tDCS with LT-RGO can improve lower extremity motor function more than LT-RGO alone. Future research with a larger sample size is recommended to determine longer-term effects on motor function and activities of daily living.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ravi Raithatha
- University of Pikeville Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine, Pikeville, KY, USA
| | - Cheryl Carrico
- University of Kentucky, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Elizabeth Salmon Powell
- University of Kentucky, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Philip M Westgate
- University of Kentucky, Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Kenneth C Chelette Ii
- University of Kentucky, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Kara Lee
- University of Kentucky College of Health Sciences, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Laura Dunsmore
- HealthSouth Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Hospital, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Sara Salles
- University of Kentucky, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Lumy Sawaki
- University of Kentucky, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Lexington, KY, USA.,HealthSouth Cardinal Hill Rehabilitation Hospital, Lexington, KY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
125
|
Rejc E, Angeli CA, Bryant N, Harkema SJ. Effects of Stand and Step Training with Epidural Stimulation on Motor Function for Standing in Chronic Complete Paraplegics. J Neurotrauma 2016; 34:1787-1802. [PMID: 27566051 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2016.4516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Individuals affected by motor complete spinal cord injury are unable to stand, walk, or move their lower limbs voluntarily; this diagnosis normally implies severe limitations for functional recovery. We have recently shown that the appropriate selection of epidural stimulation parameters was critical to promoting full-body, weight-bearing standing with independent knee extension in four individuals with chronic clinically complete paralysis. In the current study, we examined the effects of stand training and subsequent step training with epidural stimulation on motor function for standing in the same four individuals. After stand training, the ability to stand improved to different extents in the four participants. Step training performed afterwards substantially impaired standing ability in three of the four individuals. Improved standing ability generally coincided with continuous electromyography (EMG) patterns with constant levels of ground reaction forces. Conversely, poorer standing ability was associated with more variable EMG patterns that alternated EMG bursts and longer periods of negligible activity in most of the muscles. Stand and step training also differentially affected the evoked potentials amplitude modulation induced by sitting-to-standing transition. Finally, stand and step training with epidural stimulation were not sufficient to improve motor function for standing without stimulation. These findings show that the spinal circuitry of motor complete paraplegics can generate motor patterns effective for standing in response to task-specific training with optimized stimulation parameters. Conversely, step training can lead to neural adaptations resulting in impaired motor function for standing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Enrico Rejc
- 1 Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky.,2 Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Claudia A Angeli
- 1 Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky.,3 Frazier Rehab Institute , Kentucky One Health, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Nicole Bryant
- 1 Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Susan J Harkema
- 1 Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky.,2 Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky.,3 Frazier Rehab Institute , Kentucky One Health, Louisville, Kentucky
| |
Collapse
|
126
|
de Souza LL, de Araujo FLB, da Silva FAM, Mucciaroni TS, de Araujo JE. Unilateral and Immediate Stimulation of Acupuncture Points Xiaohai (SI8) and Jianwaishu (SI14) of the Small Intestine Meridian Increases Electromyographic Activity and Strength in the Ipsilateral and Contralateral Upper Trapezius Muscle. J Acupunct Meridian Stud 2016; 9:250-256. [PMID: 27776763 DOI: 10.1016/j.jams.2016.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2016] [Revised: 07/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
We previously showed that a yin meridian of the upper limb decreased electromyographic activity (root mean square) and muscle strength ipsilateral and contralateral to the side of stimulation. Here, we tested the upper trapezius (UT) muscle response after stimulation of a yang meridian of the upper limb, the small intestine (SI). Thirty-eight healthy volunteers were randomized into the following groups: UT muscle (SI14), distant of the UT muscle (SI8), without stimulation (CG), and sham (R3). An acupuncturist certificated by the Brazilian Society of Physical Therapists and Acupuncturists performed the needle insertion. Each volunteer received only one stimulation to the right upper limb. The evaluation occurred before, 5 minutes after, and 20 minutes after needle withdrawal. The root mean square activity increased on the right side in the UT muscle for the SI8 and SI14 groups (F3,37 = 4.67; p < 0.025) at the 20-minute evaluation. The most vigorous response occurred on the contralateral side because the effects were maintained for 5 minutes after withdrawal (F3,37 = 4.52; p < 0.025). Both groups showed an increase in the UT muscle strength at the 20-minute evaluation (F3,37 = 3.41; p < 0.025). The CG and R3 groups did not show any changes. Our data indicate that SI a yang meridian increases the UT muscle response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leandro L de Souza
- Laboratory of Neuropsychobiology and Motor Behavior, Department of Biomechanics, Medicine and Rehabilitation of the Locomotor System, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Instituto Paulista de Estudos Sistêmicos (IPES), Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Fernanda A M da Silva
- Laboratory of Neuropsychobiology and Motor Behavior, Department of Biomechanics, Medicine and Rehabilitation of the Locomotor System, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Instituto Paulista de Estudos Sistêmicos (IPES), Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thaís S Mucciaroni
- Laboratory of Neuropsychobiology and Motor Behavior, Department of Biomechanics, Medicine and Rehabilitation of the Locomotor System, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Instituto Paulista de Estudos Sistêmicos (IPES), Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - João E de Araujo
- Laboratory of Neuropsychobiology and Motor Behavior, Department of Biomechanics, Medicine and Rehabilitation of the Locomotor System, Ribeirão Preto Medical School of the University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
127
|
Li X, Li M, Sun J, Zhuang Y, Shi J, Guan D, Chen Y, Dai J. Radially Aligned Electrospun Fibers with Continuous Gradient of SDF1α for the Guidance of Neural Stem Cells. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2016; 12:5009-5018. [PMID: 27442189 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201601285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2016] [Revised: 06/10/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Repair of spinal cord injury will require enhanced recruitment of endogenous neural stem cells (NSCs) from the central canal region to the lesion site to reestablish neural connectivity. The strategy toward this goal is to provide directional cues, e.g., alignment topography and biological gradients from the rostral and caudal ends toward the center. This study demonstrates a facile method for fabrication of continuous gradients of stromal-cell-derived factor-1α (SDF1α) embedded in the radially aligned electrospun collagen/poly (ε-caprolactone) mats. Gradients can be readily produced in a controllable and reproducible fashion by adjusting the collection time and collector size during electrospinning. To get a long-term gradient, the SDF1α is fused with a unique peptide of collagen-binding domain (CBD), which can bind to collagen specifically. Aligned CBD-SDF1α gradients show stable, sustained, and gradual release during 7 d. Further, the effect of aligned CBD-SDF1α gradients on the guidance of NSCs is investigated. It is found that the CBD-SDF1α gradient scaffolds direct and enhance NSC migration from the periphery to the center along the aligned electrospun fibers. Taken together, the tubular conduits based on radially aligned electrospun fibers with continuous SDF1α gradient show great potential for guiding nerve regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoran Li
- Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Mengyuan Li
- Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, 215123, China
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Jie Sun
- Institute of Combined Injury, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yan Zhuang
- Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Jiajia Shi
- Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, 215123, China
- School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Dongwei Guan
- Institute of Combined Injury, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China
| | - Yanyan Chen
- Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Jianwu Dai
- Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, 215123, China.
- Institute of Combined Injury, State Key Laboratory of Trauma, Burns and Combined Injury, College of Preventive Medicine, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing, 400038, China.
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100080, China.
| |
Collapse
|
128
|
Recruitment of Polysynaptic Connections Underlies Functional Recovery of a Neural Circuit after Lesion. eNeuro 2016; 3:eN-NWR-0056-16. [PMID: 27570828 PMCID: PMC4999536 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0056-16.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2016] [Revised: 07/14/2016] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The recruitment of additional neurons to neural circuits often occurs in accordance with changing functional demands. Here we found that synaptic recruitment plays a key role in functional recovery after neural injury. Disconnection of a brain commissure in the nudibranch mollusc, Tritonia diomedea, impairs swimming behavior by eliminating particular synapses in the central pattern generator (CPG) underlying the rhythmic swim motor pattern. However, the CPG functionally recovers within a day after the lesion. The strength of a spared inhibitory synapse within the CPG from Cerebral Neuron 2 (C2) to Ventral Swim Interneuron B (VSI) determines the level of impairment caused by the lesion, which varies among individuals. In addition to this direct synaptic connection, there are polysynaptic connections from C2 and Dorsal Swim Interneurons to VSI that provide indirect excitatory drive but play only minor roles under normal conditions. After disconnecting the pedal commissure (Pedal Nerve 6), the recruitment of polysynaptic excitation became a major source of the excitatory drive to VSI. Moreover, the amount of polysynaptic recruitment, which changed over time, differed among individuals and correlated with the degree of recovery of the swim motor pattern. Thus, functional recovery was mediated by an increase in the magnitude of polysynaptic excitatory drive, compensating for the loss of direct excitation. Since the degree of susceptibility to injury corresponds to existing individual variation in the C2 to VSI synapse, the recovery relied upon the extent to which the network reorganized to incorporate additional synapses.
Collapse
|
129
|
Keller AVP, Wainwright G, Shum-Siu A, Prince D, Hoeper A, Martin E, Magnuson DSK. Disruption of Locomotion in Response to Hindlimb Muscle Stretch at Acute and Chronic Time Points after a Spinal Cord Injury in Rats. J Neurotrauma 2016; 34:661-670. [PMID: 27196003 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2015.4227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
After spinal cord injury (SCI) muscle contractures develop in the plegic limbs of many patients. Physical therapists commonly use stretching as an approach to avoid contractures and to maintain the extensibility of soft tissues. We found previously that a daily stretching protocol has a negative effect on locomotor recovery in rats with mild thoracic SCI. The purpose of the current study was to determine the effects of stretching on locomotor function at acute and chronic time points after moderately severe contusive SCI. Female Sprague-Dawley rats with 25 g-cm T10 contusion injuries received our standard 24-min stretching protocol starting 4 days (acutely) or 10 weeks (chronically) post-injury (5 days/week for 5 or 4 weeks, respectively). Locomotor function was assessed using the BBB (Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan) Open Field Locomotor Scale, video-based kinematics, and gait analysis. Locomotor deficits were evident in the acute animals after only 5 days of stretching and increasing the perceived intensity of stretching at week 4 resulted in greater impairment. Stretching initiated chronically resulted in dramatic decrements in locomotor function because most animals had BBB scores of 0-3 for weeks 2, 3, and 4 of stretching. Locomotor function recovered to control levels for both groups within 2 weeks once daily stretching ceased. Histological analysis revealed no apparent signs of overt and persistent damage to muscles undergoing stretching. The current study extends our observations of the stretching phenomenon to a more clinically relevant moderately severe SCI animal model. The results are in agreement with our previous findings and further demonstrate that spinal cord locomotor circuitry is especially vulnerable to the negative effects of stretching at chronic time points. While the clinical relevance of this phenomenon remains unknown, we speculate that stretching may contribute to the lack of locomotor recovery in some patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia V P Keller
- 1 Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky.,2 Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Grace Wainwright
- 5 Department of J.B. Speed School of Engineering, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Alice Shum-Siu
- 1 Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky.,3 Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Daniella Prince
- 1 Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky.,3 Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Alyssa Hoeper
- 5 Department of J.B. Speed School of Engineering, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Emily Martin
- 5 Department of J.B. Speed School of Engineering, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky
| | - David S K Magnuson
- 1 Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky.,3 Department of Neurological Surgery, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky.,4 Department of Anatomical Sciences and Neurobiology, University of Louisville , Louisville, Kentucky
| |
Collapse
|
130
|
Donati ARC, Shokur S, Morya E, Campos DSF, Moioli RC, Gitti CM, Augusto PB, Tripodi S, Pires CG, Pereira GA, Brasil FL, Gallo S, Lin AA, Takigami AK, Aratanha MA, Joshi S, Bleuler H, Cheng G, Rudolph A, Nicolelis MAL. Long-Term Training with a Brain-Machine Interface-Based Gait Protocol Induces Partial Neurological Recovery in Paraplegic Patients. Sci Rep 2016; 6:30383. [PMID: 27513629 PMCID: PMC4980986 DOI: 10.1038/srep30383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-machine interfaces (BMIs) provide a new assistive strategy aimed at restoring mobility in severely paralyzed patients. Yet, no study in animals or in human subjects has indicated that long-term BMI training could induce any type of clinical recovery. Eight chronic (3–13 years) spinal cord injury (SCI) paraplegics were subjected to long-term training (12 months) with a multi-stage BMI-based gait neurorehabilitation paradigm aimed at restoring locomotion. This paradigm combined intense immersive virtual reality training, enriched visual-tactile feedback, and walking with two EEG-controlled robotic actuators, including a custom-designed lower limb exoskeleton capable of delivering tactile feedback to subjects. Following 12 months of training with this paradigm, all eight patients experienced neurological improvements in somatic sensation (pain localization, fine/crude touch, and proprioceptive sensing) in multiple dermatomes. Patients also regained voluntary motor control in key muscles below the SCI level, as measured by EMGs, resulting in marked improvement in their walking index. As a result, 50% of these patients were upgraded to an incomplete paraplegia classification. Neurological recovery was paralleled by the reemergence of lower limb motor imagery at cortical level. We hypothesize that this unprecedented neurological recovery results from both cortical and spinal cord plasticity triggered by long-term BMI usage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana R C Donati
- Neurorehabilitation Laboratory, Associação Alberto Santos Dumont para Apoio à Pesquisa (AASDAP), Sâo Paulo, Brazil.,Associação de Assistência à Criança Deficiente (AACD), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Solaiman Shokur
- Neurorehabilitation Laboratory, Associação Alberto Santos Dumont para Apoio à Pesquisa (AASDAP), Sâo Paulo, Brazil
| | - Edgard Morya
- Edmond and Lily Safra International Institute of Neuroscience, Santos Dumont Institute, Macaiba, Brazil.,Alberto Santos Dumont Education and Research Institute, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Debora S F Campos
- Neurorehabilitation Laboratory, Associação Alberto Santos Dumont para Apoio à Pesquisa (AASDAP), Sâo Paulo, Brazil.,Associação de Assistência à Criança Deficiente (AACD), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Renan C Moioli
- Edmond and Lily Safra International Institute of Neuroscience, Santos Dumont Institute, Macaiba, Brazil.,Alberto Santos Dumont Education and Research Institute, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Claudia M Gitti
- Neurorehabilitation Laboratory, Associação Alberto Santos Dumont para Apoio à Pesquisa (AASDAP), Sâo Paulo, Brazil.,Associação de Assistência à Criança Deficiente (AACD), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Patricia B Augusto
- Neurorehabilitation Laboratory, Associação Alberto Santos Dumont para Apoio à Pesquisa (AASDAP), Sâo Paulo, Brazil.,Associação de Assistência à Criança Deficiente (AACD), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sandra Tripodi
- Neurorehabilitation Laboratory, Associação Alberto Santos Dumont para Apoio à Pesquisa (AASDAP), Sâo Paulo, Brazil.,Associação de Assistência à Criança Deficiente (AACD), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cristhiane G Pires
- Neurorehabilitation Laboratory, Associação Alberto Santos Dumont para Apoio à Pesquisa (AASDAP), Sâo Paulo, Brazil.,Associação de Assistência à Criança Deficiente (AACD), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gislaine A Pereira
- Neurorehabilitation Laboratory, Associação Alberto Santos Dumont para Apoio à Pesquisa (AASDAP), Sâo Paulo, Brazil.,Associação de Assistência à Criança Deficiente (AACD), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fabricio L Brasil
- Edmond and Lily Safra International Institute of Neuroscience, Santos Dumont Institute, Macaiba, Brazil.,Alberto Santos Dumont Education and Research Institute, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Simone Gallo
- STI IMT, Ecole Polytechnique Federal de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Anthony A Lin
- Neurorehabilitation Laboratory, Associação Alberto Santos Dumont para Apoio à Pesquisa (AASDAP), Sâo Paulo, Brazil.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Angelo K Takigami
- Neurorehabilitation Laboratory, Associação Alberto Santos Dumont para Apoio à Pesquisa (AASDAP), Sâo Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria A Aratanha
- Edmond and Lily Safra International Institute of Neuroscience, Santos Dumont Institute, Macaiba, Brazil
| | - Sanjay Joshi
- Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Hannes Bleuler
- STI IMT, Ecole Polytechnique Federal de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gordon Cheng
- Institute for Cognitive Systems, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany, Germany
| | - Alan Rudolph
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.,Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Miguel A L Nicolelis
- Neurorehabilitation Laboratory, Associação Alberto Santos Dumont para Apoio à Pesquisa (AASDAP), Sâo Paulo, Brazil.,Edmond and Lily Safra International Institute of Neuroscience, Santos Dumont Institute, Macaiba, Brazil.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Neurobiology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.,Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.,Center for Neuroengineering, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
131
|
Altered Cerebellar Circuitry following Thoracic Spinal Cord Injury in Adult Rats. Neural Plast 2016; 2016:8181393. [PMID: 27504204 PMCID: PMC4967704 DOI: 10.1155/2016/8181393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2016] [Accepted: 06/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cerebellar function is critical for coordinating movement and motor learning. However, events occurring in the cerebellum following spinal cord injury (SCI) have not been investigated in detail. We provide evidence of SCI-induced cerebellar synaptic changes involving a loss of granule cell parallel fiber input to distal regions of the Purkinje cell dendritic tree. This is accompanied by an apparent increase in synaptic contacts to Purkinje cell proximal dendrites, presumably from climbing fibers originating in the inferior olive. We also observed an early stage injury-induced decrease in the levels of cerebellin-1, a synaptic organizing molecule that is critical for establishing and maintaining parallel fiber-Purkinje cell synaptic integrity. Interestingly, this transsynaptic reorganizational pattern is consistent with that reported during development and in certain transgenic mouse models. To our knowledge, such a reorganizational event has not been described in response to SCI in adult rats. Regardless, the novel results of this study are important for understanding SCI-induced synaptic changes in the cerebellum, which may prove critical for strategies focusing on promoting functional recovery.
Collapse
|
132
|
Dambreville C, Charest J, Thibaudier Y, Hurteau MF, Kuczynski V, Grenier G, Frigon A. Adaptive muscle plasticity of a remaining agonist following denervation of its close synergists in a model of complete spinal cord injury. J Neurophysiol 2016; 116:1366-74. [PMID: 27358318 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00328.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2016] [Accepted: 06/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Complete spinal cord injury (SCI) alters the contractile properties of skeletal muscle, and although exercise can induce positive changes, it is unclear whether the remaining motor system can produce adaptive muscle plasticity in response to a subsequent peripheral nerve injury. To address this, the nerve supplying the lateral gastrocnemius (LG) and soleus muscles was sectioned unilaterally in four cats that had recovered hindlimb locomotion after spinal transection. In these spinal cats, kinematics and electromyography (EMG) were collected before and for 8 wk after denervation. Muscle histology was performed on LG and medial gastrocnemius (MG) bilaterally in four spinal and four intact cats. In spinal cats, cycle duration for the hindlimb ipsilateral or contralateral to the denervation could be significantly increased or decreased compared with predenervation values. Stance duration was generally increased and decreased for the contralateral and ipsilateral hindlimbs, respectively. The EMG amplitude of MG was significantly increased bilaterally after denervation and remained elevated 8 wk after denervation. In spinal cats the ipsilateral LG was significantly smaller than the contralateral LG, whereas the ipsilateral MG weighed significantly more than the contralateral MG. Histological characterizations revealed significantly larger fiber areas for type IIa fibers of the ipsilateral MG in three of four spinal cats. Microvascular density in the ipsilateral MG was significantly higher than in the contralateral MG. In intact cats, no differences were found for muscle weight, fiber area, or microvascular density between homologous muscles. Therefore, the remaining motor system after complete SCI retains the ability to produce adaptive muscle plasticity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charline Dambreville
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Sherbrooke (CRCHUS), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jérémie Charest
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Sherbrooke (CRCHUS), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Yann Thibaudier
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Sherbrooke (CRCHUS), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marie-France Hurteau
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Sherbrooke (CRCHUS), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Victoria Kuczynski
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Sherbrooke (CRCHUS), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Guillaume Grenier
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Sherbrooke (CRCHUS), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada; Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Alain Frigon
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Sherbrooke (CRCHUS), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada; Department of Pharmacology-Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada;
| |
Collapse
|
133
|
Arshavsky YI, Deliagina TG, Orlovsky GN. Central Pattern Generators: Mechanisms of Operation and Their Role in Controlling Automatic Movements. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s11055-016-0299-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
|
134
|
Hansen CN, Norden DM, Faw TD, Deibert R, Wohleb ES, Sheridan JF, Godbout JP, Basso DM. Lumbar Myeloid Cell Trafficking into Locomotor Networks after Thoracic Spinal Cord Injury. Exp Neurol 2016; 282:86-98. [PMID: 27191729 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2016.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2016] [Revised: 04/28/2016] [Accepted: 05/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) promotes inflammation along the neuroaxis that jeopardizes plasticity, intrinsic repair and recovery. While inflammation at the injury site is well-established, less is known within remote spinal networks. The presence of bone marrow-derived immune (myeloid) cells in these areas may further impede functional recovery. Previously, high levels of the gelatinase, matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) occurred within the lumbar enlargement after thoracic SCI and impeded activity-dependent recovery. Since SCI-induced MMP-9 potentially increases vascular permeability, myeloid cell infiltration may drive inflammatory toxicity in locomotor networks. Therefore, we examined neurovascular reactivity and myeloid cell infiltration in the lumbar cord after thoracic SCI. We show evidence of region-specific recruitment of myeloid cells into the lumbar but not cervical region. Myeloid infiltration occurred with concomitant increases in chemoattractants (CCL2) and cell adhesion molecules (ICAM-1) around lumbar vasculature 24h and 7days post injury. Bone marrow GFP chimeric mice established robust infiltration of bone marrow-derived myeloid cells into the lumbar gray matter 24h after SCI. This cell infiltration occurred when the blood-spinal cord barrier was intact, suggesting active recruitment across the endothelium. Myeloid cells persisted as ramified macrophages at 7days post injury in parallel with increased inhibitory GAD67 labeling. Importantly, macrophage infiltration required MMP-9.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher N Hansen
- Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Repair, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Diana M Norden
- Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Repair, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Timothy D Faw
- Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Repair, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Neuroscience Graduate Program, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Rochelle Deibert
- Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Repair, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Eric S Wohleb
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Division of Biosciences, , The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - John F Sheridan
- Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Repair, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Division of Biosciences, , The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Jonathan P Godbout
- Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Repair, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - D Michele Basso
- Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Repair, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
135
|
Alves-Sampaio A, García-Rama C, Collazos-Castro JE. Biofunctionalized PEDOT-coated microfibers for the treatment of spinal cord injury. Biomaterials 2016; 89:98-113. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2016.02.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2015] [Revised: 02/11/2016] [Accepted: 02/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
|
136
|
Delayed application of the anesthetic propofol contrasts the neurotoxic effects of kainate on rat organotypic spinal slice cultures. Neurotoxicology 2016; 54:1-10. [PMID: 26947011 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2016.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2015] [Revised: 02/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Excitotoxicity due to hyperactivation of glutamate receptors is thought to underlie acute spinal injury with subsequent strong deficit in spinal network function. Devising an efficacious protocol of neuroprotection to arrest excitotoxicity might, therefore, spare a substantial number of neurons and allow later recovery. In vitro preparations of the spinal cord enable detailed measurement of spinal damage evoked by the potent glutamate analogue kainate. Any clinically-relevant neuroprotective treatment should start after the initial lesion and spare networks for at least 24h when cell damage plateaus. Using this strategy, we have observed that the gas anesthetic methoxyflurane provided strong, delayed neuroprotection. It is unclear if this beneficial effect was due to the mechanism of action by methoxyflurane, or it was the consequence of anesthetic depression. To test this hypothesis, we investigated the effect by propofol (commonly injected i.v. for general anesthesia) after kainate excitotoxicity induced on organotypic spinal slices. At 5μM concentration, propofol significantly attenuated cell death, including neuronal losses and, especially, damage to the highly vulnerable motoneurons. The action by propofol was fully prevented when co-applied with the GABAA antagonist bicuculline, indicating that neuroprotection required intact GABAA receptor function. Although bicuculline per se was not neurotoxic, it largely enhanced the lesional effects of kainate, suggesting that GABAA receptor activity could limit excitotoxicity. Our data might offer an explanation for the beneficial clinical outcome of neurosurgery performed as soon as possible after spinal lesion: we posit that general anesthesia contributes to this outcome, regardless of the type of anesthetic used.
Collapse
|
137
|
Lee KH, Huang YJ, Grau JW. Learning about Time within the Spinal Cord II: Evidence that Temporal Regularity Is Encoded by a Spinal Oscillator. Front Behav Neurosci 2016; 10:14. [PMID: 26903830 PMCID: PMC4749712 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2016.00014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2015] [Accepted: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
How a stimulus impacts spinal cord function depends upon temporal relations. When intermittent noxious stimulation (shock) is applied and the interval between shock pulses is varied (unpredictable), it induces a lasting alteration that inhibits adaptive learning. If the same stimulus is applied in a temporally regular (predictable) manner, the capacity to learn is preserved and a protective/restorative effect is engaged that counters the adverse effect of variable stimulation. Sensitivity to temporal relations implies a capacity to encode time. This study explores how spinal neurons discriminate variable and fixed spaced stimulation. Communication with the brain was blocked by means of a spinal transection and adaptive capacity was tested using an instrumental learning task. In this task, subjects must learn to maintain a hind limb in a flexed position to minimize shock exposure. To evaluate the possibility that a distinct class of afferent fibers provide a sensory cue for regularity, we manipulated the temporal relation between shocks given to two dermatomes (leg and tail). Evidence for timing emerged when the stimuli were applied in a coherent manner across dermatomes, implying that a central (spinal) process detects regularity. Next, we show that fixed spaced stimulation has a restorative effect when half the physical stimuli are randomly omitted, as long as the stimuli remain in phase, suggesting that stimulus regularity is encoded by an internal oscillator Research suggests that the oscillator that drives the tempo of stepping depends upon neurons within the rostral lumbar (L1-L2) region. Disrupting communication with the L1-L2 tissue by means of a L3 transection eliminated the restorative effect of fixed spaced stimulation. Implications of the results for step training and rehabilitation after injury are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kuan H Lee
- Department of Neurobiology, Center for Pain Research, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Yung-Jen Huang
- Department of Psychology, Cellular and Behavioral Neuroscience, Texas A&M University College Station, TX, USA
| | - James W Grau
- Department of Psychology, Cellular and Behavioral Neuroscience, Texas A&M University College Station, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
138
|
Stem cells in canine spinal cord injury--promise for regenerative therapy in a large animal model of human disease. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2015; 11:180-93. [PMID: 25173879 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-014-9553-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The use of cell transplantation for spinal cord injury is a rapidly evolving field in regenerative medicine. Numerous animal models are currently being used. However, translation to human patients is still a challenging step. Dogs are of increasing importance as a translational model for human disease since there is a greater awareness of the need to increase the quality of preclinical data. The use of dogs ultimately brings benefit to both human and veterinary medicine. In this review we analyze experimental and clinical studies using cell transplantation for canine spinal cord injury. Overall, in experimental studies, transplantation groups showed improvement over control groups. Improvements were measured at the functional, electrophysiological, histological, RNA and protein levels. Most clinical studies support beneficial effects of cell transplantation despite the fact that methodological limitations preclude definitive conclusions. However, the mechanisms of action and underlying the behavior of transplanted cells in the injured spinal cord remain unclear. Overall, we conclude here that stem cell interventions are a promising avenue for the treatment of spinal cord injury. Canines are a promising model that may help bridge the gap between translational research and human clinical trials.
Collapse
|
139
|
Lee KH, Turtle JD, Huang YJ, Strain MM, Baumbauer KM, Grau JW. Learning about time within the spinal cord: evidence that spinal neurons can abstract and store an index of regularity. Front Behav Neurosci 2015; 9:274. [PMID: 26539090 PMCID: PMC4612497 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2015.00274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Prior studies have shown that intermittent noxious stimulation has divergent effects on spinal cord plasticity depending upon whether it occurs in a regular (fixed time, FT) or irregular (variable time, VT) manner: In spinally transected animals, VT stimulation to the tail or hind leg impaired spinal learning whereas an extended exposure to FT stimulation had a restorative/protective effect. These observations imply that lower level systems are sensitive to temporal relations. Using spinally transected rats, it is shown that the restorative effect of FT stimulation emerges after 540 shocks; fewer shocks generate a learning impairment. The transformative effect of FT stimulation is related to the number of shocks administered, not the duration of exposure. Administration of 360 FT shocks induces a learning deficit that lasts 24 h. If a second bout of FT stimulation is given a day after the first, it restores the capacity to learn. This savings effect implies that the initial training episode had a lasting (memory-like) effect. Two bouts of shock have a transformative effect when applied at different locations or at difference frequencies, implying spinal systems abstract and store an index of regularity (rather than a specific interval). Implications of the results for step training and rehabilitation after injury are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kuan H Lee
- Department of Neurobiology, Center for Pain Research, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Joel D Turtle
- Department of Psychology, Cellular and Behavioral Neuroscience, Texas A&M University College Station, TX, USA
| | - Yung-Jen Huang
- Department of Psychology, Cellular and Behavioral Neuroscience, Texas A&M University College Station, TX, USA
| | - Misty M Strain
- Department of Psychology, Cellular and Behavioral Neuroscience, Texas A&M University College Station, TX, USA
| | | | - James W Grau
- Department of Psychology, Cellular and Behavioral Neuroscience, Texas A&M University College Station, TX, USA
| |
Collapse
|
140
|
Alluin O, Delivet-Mongrain H, Rossignol S. Inducing hindlimb locomotor recovery in adult rat after complete thoracic spinal cord section using repeated treadmill training with perineal stimulation only. J Neurophysiol 2015; 114:1931-46. [PMID: 26203108 PMCID: PMC4579296 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00416.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2015] [Accepted: 07/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Although a complete thoracic spinal cord section in various mammals induces paralysis of voluntary movements, the spinal lumbosacral circuitry below the lesion retains its ability to generate hindlimb locomotion. This important capacity may contribute to the overall locomotor recovery after partial spinal cord injury (SCI). In rats, it is usually triggered by pharmacological and/or electrical stimulation of the cord while a robot sustains the animals in an upright posture. In the present study we daily trained a group of adult spinal (T7) rats to walk with the hindlimbs for 10 wk (10 min/day for 5 days/wk), using only perineal stimulation. Kinematic analysis and terminal electromyographic recordings revealed a strong effect of training on the reexpression of hindlimb locomotion. Indeed, trained animals gradually improved their locomotion while untrained animals worsened throughout the post-SCI period. Kinematic parameters such as averaged and instant swing phase velocity, step cycle variability, foot drag duration, off period duration, and relationship between the swing features returned to normal values only in trained animals. The present results clearly demonstrate that treadmill training alone, in a normal horizontal posture, elicited by noninvasive perineal stimulation is sufficient to induce a persistent hindlimb locomotor recovery without the need for more complex strategies. This provides a baseline level that should be clearly surpassed if additional locomotor-enabling procedures are added. Moreover, it has a clinical value since intrinsic spinal reorganization induced by training should contribute to improve locomotor recovery together with afferent feedback and supraspinal modifications in patients with incomplete SCI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Alluin
- Department of Neuroscience and Groupe de Recherche sur le Système Nerveux Central (GRSNC), Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; and SensoriMotor Rehabilitation Research Team, Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Hugo Delivet-Mongrain
- Department of Neuroscience and Groupe de Recherche sur le Système Nerveux Central (GRSNC), Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; and SensoriMotor Rehabilitation Research Team, Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Serge Rossignol
- Department of Neuroscience and Groupe de Recherche sur le Système Nerveux Central (GRSNC), Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; and SensoriMotor Rehabilitation Research Team, Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
141
|
Transcriptional Pathways Associated with Skeletal Muscle Changes after Spinal Cord Injury and Treadmill Locomotor Training. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:387090. [PMID: 26380273 PMCID: PMC4561307 DOI: 10.1155/2015/387090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2015] [Accepted: 05/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The genetic and molecular events associated with changes in muscle mass and
function after SCI and after the implementation of candidate therapeutic
approaches are still not completely known. The overall objective of this study was
to identify key molecular pathways activated with muscle remodeling after SCI
and locomotor training. We implemented treadmill training in a well-characterized
rat model of moderate SCI and performed genome wide expression profiling on
soleus muscles at multiple time points: 3, 8, and 14 days after SCI. We found that the
activity of the protein ubiquitination and mitochondrial function related pathways
was altered with SCI and corrected with treadmill training. The BMP pathway was
differentially activated with early treadmill training as shown by Ingenuity
Pathway Analysis. The expression of several muscle mass regulators was
modulated by treadmill training, including Fst, Jun, Bmpr2, Actr2b, and Smad3. In
addition, key players in fatty acids metabolism (Lpl and Fabp3) responded to
both SCI induced inactivity and reloading with training. The decrease in Smad3 and Fst early after the initiation of treadmill training was confirmed by RT-PCR. Our data suggest that TGFβ/Smad3 signaling may be mainly involved in the decrease in muscle mass observed with SCI, while the BMP pathway was activated with treadmill training.
Collapse
|
142
|
Gerasimenko YP, Lu DC, Modaber M, Zdunowski S, Gad P, Sayenko DG, Morikawa E, Haakana P, Ferguson AR, Roy RR, Edgerton VR. Noninvasive Reactivation of Motor Descending Control after Paralysis. J Neurotrauma 2015; 32:1968-80. [PMID: 26077679 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2015.4008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 176] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The present prognosis for the recovery of voluntary control of movement in patients diagnosed as motor complete is generally poor. Herein we introduce a novel and noninvasive stimulation strategy of painless transcutaneous electrical enabling motor control and a pharmacological enabling motor control strategy to neuromodulate the physiological state of the spinal cord. This neuromodulation enabled the spinal locomotor networks of individuals with motor complete paralysis for 2-6 years American Spinal Cord Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS) to be re-engaged and trained. We showed that locomotor-like stepping could be induced without voluntary effort within a single test session using electrical stimulation and training. We also observed significant facilitation of voluntary influence on the stepping movements in the presence of stimulation over a 4-week period in each subject. Using these strategies we transformed brain-spinal neuronal networks from a dormant to a functional state sufficiently to enable recovery of voluntary movement in five out of five subjects. Pharmacological intervention combined with stimulation and training resulted in further improvement in voluntary motor control of stepping-like movements in all subjects. We also observed on-command selective activation of the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles when attempting to plantarflex. At the end of 18 weeks of weekly interventions the mean changes in the amplitude of voluntarily controlled movement without stimulation was as high as occurred when combined with electrical stimulation. Additionally, spinally evoked motor potentials were readily modulated in the presence of voluntary effort, providing electrophysiological evidence of the re-establishment of functional connectivity among neural networks between the brain and the spinal cord.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yury P Gerasimenko
- 1 Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California , Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California.,2 Pavlov Institute of Physiology , St. Petersburg, Russia .,3 Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University , Kazan, Russia
| | - Daniel C Lu
- 4 Department of Neurosurgery, University of California , Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California.,5 Neuromotor Recovery and Rehabilitation Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California , Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Morteza Modaber
- 4 Department of Neurosurgery, University of California , Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California.,5 Neuromotor Recovery and Rehabilitation Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California , Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Sharon Zdunowski
- 1 Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California , Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Parag Gad
- 1 Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California , Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Dimitry G Sayenko
- 1 Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California , Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Erika Morikawa
- 4 Department of Neurosurgery, University of California , Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California.,5 Neuromotor Recovery and Rehabilitation Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California , Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Piia Haakana
- 4 Department of Neurosurgery, University of California , Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California.,5 Neuromotor Recovery and Rehabilitation Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California , Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - Adam R Ferguson
- 6 Brain and Spinal Injury Center, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California , San Francisco, San Francisco, California
| | - Roland R Roy
- 1 Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California , Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California.,7 Brain Research Institute, University of California , Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| | - V Reggie Edgerton
- 1 Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology, University of California , Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California.,4 Department of Neurosurgery, University of California , Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California.,7 Brain Research Institute, University of California , Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
| |
Collapse
|
143
|
Takiguchi M, Atobe Y, Kadota T, Funakoshi K. Compensatory projections of primary sensory fibers in lumbar spinal cord after neonatal thoracic spinal transection in rats. Neuroscience 2015. [PMID: 26208841 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2015.07.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Complete spinal transection in adult rats results in poor recovery of hind limb function, whereas significant spontaneous recovery can occur following spinal cord transection in rat neonates. The mechanisms underlying the recovery, however, are poorly understood. Recent studies in rodents suggested that the recovery is not due to axonal regeneration, but rather due to reorganization of the neural circuits in the spinal cord below the injury site, including central pattern generators. Few studies have reported histological evidence for changes in the primary sensory fibers or terminals. Thus, in the present study, we transected spinal cords of rats at thoracic level 8 at postnatal day 5. Four weeks after the injury, biotinylated-dextran amine (BDA), an anterograde tracer, was injected into the dorsal root ganglion of the lumbar spinal cord to examine the localization of sensory fibers and their terminal buttons in the spinal cord. BDA-positive axons in the rat spinal cord following neonatal spinal transection (neo ST) were longer than those in sham-operated or normal rats. The number of terminal buttons was also higher in spinal cords of neo ST rats compared with sham-operated or normal rats. These findings suggest that sensory fibers project more strongly and make more synapses following neo ST to compensate for the lack of supraspinal projections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Takiguchi
- Neuroanatomy, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, 3-9 Fukuura, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan.
| | - Y Atobe
- Neuroanatomy, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, 3-9 Fukuura, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan.
| | - T Kadota
- Neuroanatomy, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, 3-9 Fukuura, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan.
| | - K Funakoshi
- Neuroanatomy, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, 3-9 Fukuura, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
144
|
Cevallos C, Zarka D, Hoellinger T, Leroy A, Dan B, Cheron G. Oscillations in the human brain during walking execution, imagination and observation. Neuropsychologia 2015; 79:223-32. [PMID: 26164473 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2015.06.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2015] [Revised: 06/19/2015] [Accepted: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Gait is an essential human activity which organizes many functional and cognitive behaviors. The biomechanical constraints of bipedalism implicating a permanent control of balance during gait are taken into account by a complex dialog between the cortical, subcortical and spinal networks. This networking is largely based on oscillatory coding, including changes in spectral power and phase-locking of ongoing neural activity in theta, alpha, beta and gamma frequency bands. This coding is specifically modulated in actual gait execution and representation, as well as in contexts of gait observation or imagination. A main challenge in integrative neuroscience oscillatory activity analysis is to disentangle the brain oscillations devoted to gait control. In addition to neuroimaging approaches, which have highlighted the structural components of an extended network, dynamic high-density EEG gives non-invasive access to functioning of this network. Here we revisit the neurophysiological foundations of behavior-related EEG in the light of current neuropsychological theoretic frameworks. We review different EEG rhythms emerging in the most informative paradigms relating to human gait and implications for rehabilitation strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Cevallos
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Movement Biomechanics, ULB Neuroscience Institut, Université Libre de Bruxelles, CP 640, 50 Avenue Franklin Rooseveltlaan, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - D Zarka
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Movement Biomechanics, ULB Neuroscience Institut, Université Libre de Bruxelles, CP 640, 50 Avenue Franklin Rooseveltlaan, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - T Hoellinger
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Movement Biomechanics, ULB Neuroscience Institut, Université Libre de Bruxelles, CP 640, 50 Avenue Franklin Rooseveltlaan, 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - A Leroy
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Movement Biomechanics, ULB Neuroscience Institut, Université Libre de Bruxelles, CP 640, 50 Avenue Franklin Rooseveltlaan, 1050 Brussels, Belgium; Haute Ecole Condorcet, Charleroi, Belgium
| | - B Dan
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Movement Biomechanics, ULB Neuroscience Institut, Université Libre de Bruxelles, CP 640, 50 Avenue Franklin Rooseveltlaan, 1050 Brussels, Belgium; Department of Neurology, Hopital Universitaire des Enfants reine Fabiola, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - G Cheron
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology and Movement Biomechanics, ULB Neuroscience Institut, Université Libre de Bruxelles, CP 640, 50 Avenue Franklin Rooseveltlaan, 1050 Brussels, Belgium; Laboratory of Electrophysiology, Université de Mons-Hainaut, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
145
|
Nakagawa H, Ninomiya T, Yamashita T, Takada M. Reorganization of corticospinal tract fibers after spinal cord injury in adult macaques. Sci Rep 2015; 5:11986. [PMID: 26132896 PMCID: PMC4487234 DOI: 10.1038/srep11986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that sprouting of corticospinal tract (CST) fibers after spinal cord injury (SCI) contributes to recovery of motor functions. However, the neuroanatomical mechanism underlying the functional recovery through sprouting CST fibers remains unclear. Here we investigated the pattern of reorganization of CST fibers below the lesion site after SCI in adult macaques. Unilateral lesions were made at the level between the C7 and the C8 segment. The extent of spontaneous recovery of manual dexterity was assessed with a reaching/grasping task. The impaired dexterous manual movements were gradually recovered after SCI. When anterograde tract tracing with biotinylated dextran amine was performed to identify the intraspinal reinnervation of sprouting CST fibers, it was found that the laminar distribution of CST fibers was changed. The sprouting CST fibers extended preferentially into lamia IX where the spinal motor neuron pool was located, to innervate the motor neurons directly. Instead, few, if any, CST fibers were distributed in the dorsal laminae. The present results indicate that CST fibers below the lesion site after SCI in macaques are reorganized in conjunction with the recovery of dexterous manual movements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Nakagawa
- 1] Systems Neuroscience Section, Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Inuyama, Aichi 484-8506, Japan [2] Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Taihei Ninomiya
- Systems Neuroscience Section, Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Inuyama, Aichi 484-8506, Japan
| | - Toshihide Yamashita
- Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Masahiko Takada
- Systems Neuroscience Section, Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Inuyama, Aichi 484-8506, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
146
|
Vahdat S, Lungu O, Cohen-Adad J, Marchand-Pauvert V, Benali H, Doyon J. Simultaneous Brain-Cervical Cord fMRI Reveals Intrinsic Spinal Cord Plasticity during Motor Sequence Learning. PLoS Biol 2015; 13:e1002186. [PMID: 26125597 PMCID: PMC4488354 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.1002186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2015] [Accepted: 05/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The spinal cord participates in the execution of skilled movements by translating high-level cerebral motor representations into musculotopic commands. Yet, the extent to which motor skill acquisition relies on intrinsic spinal cord processes remains unknown. To date, attempts to address this question were limited by difficulties in separating spinal local effects from supraspinal influences through traditional electrophysiological and neuroimaging methods. Here, for the first time, we provide evidence for local learning-induced plasticity in intact human spinal cord through simultaneous functional magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and spinal cord during motor sequence learning. Specifically, we show learning-related modulation of activity in the C6–C8 spinal region, which is independent from that of related supraspinal sensorimotor structures. Moreover, a brain–spinal cord functional connectivity analysis demonstrates that the initial linear relationship between the spinal cord and sensorimotor cortex gradually fades away over the course of motor sequence learning, while the connectivity between spinal activity and cerebellum gains strength. These data suggest that the spinal cord not only constitutes an active functional component of the human motor learning network but also contributes distinctively from the brain to the learning process. The present findings open new avenues for rehabilitation of patients with spinal cord injuries, as they demonstrate that this part of the central nervous system is much more plastic than assumed before. Yet, the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying this intrinsic functional plasticity in the spinal cord warrant further investigations. Simultaneous neuroimaging of brain and spinal cord reveals intrinsic plasticity in the spinal cord during motor sequence learning in humans, independent from that of related sensorimotor structures in the brain. When we acquire a new motor skill—for example, learning how to play a musical instrument—new synaptic connections are induced in a distributed network of brain areas. There is ample evidence from human neuroimaging studies for this high plasticity of the brain, but what about the spinal cord, the main link between the brain and the peripheral nervous system? Literature on animal models has recently hinted that spinal cord neurons can learn during various conditioning paradigms. However, human learning models by tradition assume that the spinal cord acts as a passive relay of information from the cortex to the muscles. In this study, we simultaneously acquired functional images of both the brain and the cervical spinal cord through functional magnetic resonance imaging, and we provide evidence for local spinal cord plasticity during a well-studied motor learning task in humans. We also demonstrate a dynamic change in the interaction of the brain and spinal cord regions over the course of motor learning. The present findings have important clinical implications for rehabilitation of patients with spinal cord injuries, as they demonstrate that this part of the central nervous system is much more plastic than it was assumed before.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shahabeddin Vahdat
- Functional Neuroimaging Unit, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- SensoriMotor Rehabilitation Research Team (CIHR), Montreal, Canada
| | - Ovidiu Lungu
- Functional Neuroimaging Unit, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- SensoriMotor Rehabilitation Research Team (CIHR), Montreal, Canada
| | - Julien Cohen-Adad
- SensoriMotor Rehabilitation Research Team (CIHR), Montreal, Canada
- École Polytechnique de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Habib Benali
- SensoriMotor Rehabilitation Research Team (CIHR), Montreal, Canada
- INSERM/UPMC, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Julien Doyon
- Functional Neuroimaging Unit, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- SensoriMotor Rehabilitation Research Team (CIHR), Montreal, Canada
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
147
|
Gossard JP, Delivet-Mongrain H, Martinez M, Kundu A, Escalona M, Rossignol S. Plastic Changes in Lumbar Locomotor Networks after a Partial Spinal Cord Injury in Cats. J Neurosci 2015; 35:9446-55. [PMID: 26109667 PMCID: PMC6605194 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.4502-14.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2014] [Revised: 04/02/2015] [Accepted: 05/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
After an incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI), we know that plastic reorganization occurs in supraspinal structures with residual descending tracts. However, our knowledge about spinal plasticity is rather limited. Our recent studies point to changes within the spinal cord below the lesion. After a lateral left hemisection (T10), cats recovered stepping with both hindlimbs within 3 weeks. After a complete section (T13) in these cats, bilateral stepping was seen on the next day, a skill usually acquired after several weeks of treadmill training. This indicates that durable plastic changes occurred below the lesion. However, because sensory feedback entrains the stepping rhythm, it is difficult to reveal central pattern generator (CPG) adaptation. Here, we investigated whether lumbar segments of cats with a chronic hemisection were able to generate fictive locomotion-that is, without phasic sensory feedback as monitored by five muscle nerves in each hindlimb. With a chronic left hemisection, the number of muscle nerves displaying locomotor bursts was larger on the left than on the right. In addition, transmission of cutaneous reflexes was relatively facilitated on the left. Later during the acute experiment, a complete spinalization (T13) was performed and clonidine was injected to induce rhythmic activities. There were still more muscle nerves displaying locomotor bursts on the left. The results demonstrate that spinal networks were indeed modified after a hemisection with a clear asymmetry between left and right in the capacity to generate locomotion. Plastic changes in CPG and reflex transmission below the lesion are thus involved in the stepping recovery after an incomplete SCI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Pierre Gossard
- Groupe de Recherche sur le Système Nerveux Central, Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3C3J7, Canada, and
| | - Hugo Delivet-Mongrain
- Groupe de Recherche sur le Système Nerveux Central, Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3C3J7, Canada, and
| | - Marina Martinez
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Aritra Kundu
- Groupe de Recherche sur le Système Nerveux Central, Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3C3J7, Canada, and
| | - Manuel Escalona
- Groupe de Recherche sur le Système Nerveux Central, Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3C3J7, Canada, and
| | - Serge Rossignol
- Groupe de Recherche sur le Système Nerveux Central, Department of Neurosciences, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec H3C3J7, Canada, and
| |
Collapse
|
148
|
Brownstone RM, Bui TV, Stifani N. Spinal circuits for motor learning. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2015; 33:166-73. [PMID: 25978563 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2015.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Revised: 04/25/2015] [Accepted: 04/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Studies of motor learning have largely focussed on the cerebellum, and have provided key concepts about neural circuits required. However, other parts of the nervous system are involved in learning, as demonstrated by the capacity to 'train' spinal circuits to produce locomotion following spinal cord injury. While somatosensory feedback is necessary for spinal motor learning, feed forward circuits within the spinal cord must also contribute. In fact, motoneurons themselves could act as comparators that integrate feed forward and feedback inputs, and thus contribute to motor learning. Application of cerebellar-derived principles to spinal circuitry leads to testable predictions of spinal organization required for motor learning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert M Brownstone
- Department of Surgery (Neurosurgery), Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3H 4R2; Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3H 4R2.
| | - Tuan V Bui
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1N 6N5; Centre for Neural Dynamics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1N 6N5
| | - Nicolas Stifani
- Department of Medical Neuroscience, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3H 4R2
| |
Collapse
|
149
|
Rossignol S, Martinez M, Escalona M, Kundu A, Delivet-Mongrain H, Alluin O, Gossard JP. The "beneficial" effects of locomotor training after various types of spinal lesions in cats and rats. PROGRESS IN BRAIN RESEARCH 2015; 218:173-98. [PMID: 25890137 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pbr.2014.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
This chapter reviews a number of experiments on the recovery of locomotion after various types of spinal lesions and locomotor training mainly in cats. We first recall the major evidence on the recovery of hindlimb locomotion in completely spinalized cats at the T13 level and the role played by the spinal locomotor network, also known as the central pattern generator, as well as the beneficial effects of locomotor training on this recovery. Having established that hindlimb locomotion can recover, we raise the issue as to whether spinal plastic changes could also contribute to the recovery after partial spinal lesions such as unilateral hemisections. We found that after such hemisection at T10, cats could recover quadrupedal locomotion and that deficits could be improved by training. We further showed that, after a complete spinalization a few segments below the first hemisection (at T13, i.e., the level of previous studies on spinalization), cats could readily walk with the hindlimbs within hours of completely severing the remaining spinal tracts and not days as is usually the case with only a single complete spinalization. This suggests that neuroplastic changes occurred below the first hemisection so that the cat was already primed to walk after the spinalization subsequent to the hemispinalization 3 weeks before. Of interest is the fact that some characteristic kinematic features in trained or untrained hemispinalized cats could remain after complete spinalization, suggesting that spinal changes induced by training could also be durable. Other studies on reflexes and on the pattern of "fictive" locomotion recorded after curarization corroborate this view. More recent work deals with training cats in more demanding situations such as ladder treadmill (vs. flat treadmill) to evaluate how the locomotor training regimen can influence the spinal cord. Finally, we report our recent studies in rats using compressive lesions or surgical complete spinalization and find that some principles of locomotor recovery in cats also apply to rats when adequate locomotor training is provided.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Serge Rossignol
- Department of Neuroscience and Groupe de Recherche sur le Système Nerveux Central (GRSNC), Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, P.O. Box 6128, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; SensoriMotor Rehabilitation Research Team of the Canadian Institute of Health Research, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Marina Martinez
- Department of Neuroscience and Groupe de Recherche sur le Système Nerveux Central (GRSNC), Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, P.O. Box 6128, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; SensoriMotor Rehabilitation Research Team of the Canadian Institute of Health Research, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Manuel Escalona
- Department of Neuroscience and Groupe de Recherche sur le Système Nerveux Central (GRSNC), Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, P.O. Box 6128, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Aritra Kundu
- Department of Neuroscience and Groupe de Recherche sur le Système Nerveux Central (GRSNC), Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, P.O. Box 6128, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Hugo Delivet-Mongrain
- Department of Neuroscience and Groupe de Recherche sur le Système Nerveux Central (GRSNC), Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, P.O. Box 6128, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Olivier Alluin
- Department of Neuroscience and Groupe de Recherche sur le Système Nerveux Central (GRSNC), Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, P.O. Box 6128, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; SensoriMotor Rehabilitation Research Team of the Canadian Institute of Health Research, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jean-Pierre Gossard
- Department of Neuroscience and Groupe de Recherche sur le Système Nerveux Central (GRSNC), Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, P.O. Box 6128, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; SensoriMotor Rehabilitation Research Team of the Canadian Institute of Health Research, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
150
|
Safety and efficacy of at-home robotic locomotion therapy in individuals with chronic incomplete spinal cord injury: a prospective, pre-post intervention, proof-of-concept study. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0119167. [PMID: 25803577 PMCID: PMC4372343 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0119167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2014] [Accepted: 01/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The compact Motorized orthosis for home rehabilitation of Gait (MoreGait) was developed for continuation of locomotion training at home. MoreGait generates afferent stimuli of walking with the user in a semi-supine position and provides feedback about deviations from the reference walking pattern. OBJECTIVE Prospective, pre-post intervention, proof-of-concept study to test the feasibility of an unsupervised home-based application of five MoreGait prototypes in subjects with incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI). METHODS Twenty-five (5 tetraplegia, 20 paraplegia) participants with chronic (mean time since injury: 5.8 ± 5.4 (standard deviation, SD) years) sensorimotor iSCI (7 ASIA Impairment Scale (AIS) C, 18 AIS D; Walking Index for Spinal Cord Injury (WISCI II): Interquartile range 9 to 16) completed the training (45 minutes / day, at least 4 days / week, 8 weeks). Baseline status was documented 4 and 2 weeks before and at training onset. Training effects were assessed after 4 and 8 weeks of therapy. RESULTS After therapy, 9 of 25 study participants improved with respect to the dependency on walking aids assessed by the WISCI II. For all individuals, the short-distance walking velocity measured by the 10-Meter Walk Test showed significant improvements compared to baseline (100%) for both self-selected (Mean 139.4% ± 35.5% (SD)) and maximum (Mean 143.1% ± 40.6% (SD)) speed conditions as well as the endurance estimated with the six-minute walk test (Mean 166.6% ± 72.1% (SD)). One device-related adverse event (pressure sore on the big toe) occurred in over 800 training sessions. CONCLUSIONS Home-based robotic locomotion training with MoreGait is feasible and safe. The magnitude of functional improvements achieved by MoreGait in individuals with iSCI is well within the range of complex locomotion robots used in hospitals. Thus, unsupervised MoreGait training potentially represents an option to prolong effective training aiming at recovery of locomotor function beyond in-patient rehabilitation. TRIAL REGISTRATION German Clinical Trials Register (DKRS) DRKS00005587.
Collapse
|