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Mathew AJ, Finn HT, Carter SG, Gandevia SC, Butler JE. Motor-evoked potentials in the human upper and lower limb do not increase after single 30-min sessions of acute intermittent hypoxia. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2024; 137:51-62. [PMID: 38722751 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00010.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH) can induce sustained facilitation of motor output in people with spinal cord injury (SCI). Most studies of corticospinal tract excitability in humans have used 9% fraction inspired oxygen ([Formula: see text]) AIH (AIH-9%), with inconsistent outcomes. We investigated the effect of single sessions of 9% [Formula: see text] and 12% [Formula: see text] AIH (AIH-12%) on corticospinal excitability of a hand and leg muscle in able-bodied adults. Ten naïve participants completed three sessions on separate days comprising 15 epochs of 1 min of AIH-9%, AIH-12%, or sham (SHAM-21%) followed by 1 min of room air (21% [Formula: see text]) in a randomized crossover design. Motor-evoked potentials (MEPs; n = 30, ∼1 mV) elicited at rest by transcranial magnetic stimulation and maximal M-waves (Mmax) evoked by peripheral nerve stimulation were measured from the first dorsal interosseous (FDI) and tibialis anterior (TA) muscles at baseline and at ∼0, 20, 40, and 60 min post intervention. AIH-9% induced the greatest reduction in peripheral oxygen saturation (to 85% vs. 93% and 100% in AIH-12% and SHAM-21%, respectively; P < 0.001) and the greatest increase in ventilation [by 22% vs. 12% and -3% in AIH-9%, AIH-12%, and SHAM-21%, respectively (P < 0.001)]. There was no difference in MEP amplitudes (%Mmax) after any of the three conditions (AIH-9%, AIH-12%, SHAM-21%) for both the FDI (P = 0.399) and TA (P = 0.582). Despite greater cardiorespiratory changes during AIH-9%, there was no evidence of corticospinal facilitation (tested with MEPs) in this study. Further studies could explore variability in response to AIH between individuals and other methods to measure motor facilitation in people with and without spinal cord injuries.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This is the first study that tests whether acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH) induces motor output facilitation in humans after two different doses of AIH (9% and 12% [Formula: see text]) and the reproducibility of participant responses after a repeat AIH intervention at 9% AIH. There was no motor output facilitation in response to either dose of AIH. The results question the effectiveness of a single 30-min session of AIH in inducing motor output facilitation, tested in this way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anandit J Mathew
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Harrison T Finn
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sophie G Carter
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Simon C Gandevia
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Prince of Wales Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jane E Butler
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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2
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Gandevia SC, Butler JE. Acute intermittent hypoxia: Enhancing motoneuronal output or not? Exp Physiol 2024. [PMID: 38923621 DOI: 10.1113/ep091985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Simon C Gandevia
- Neuroscience Research Australia and University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia
| | - Jane E Butler
- Neuroscience Research Australia and University of New South Wales, Randwick, Australia
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3
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Bjørndal JR, Beck MM, Jespersen L, Christiansen L, Lundbye-Jensen J. Hebbian priming of human motor learning. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5126. [PMID: 38879614 PMCID: PMC11180091 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49478-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Motor learning relies on experience-dependent plasticity in relevant neural circuits. In four experiments, we provide initial evidence and a double-blinded, sham-controlled replication (Experiment I-II) demonstrating that motor learning involving ballistic index finger movements is improved by preceding paired corticospinal-motoneuronal stimulation (PCMS), a human model for exogenous induction of spike-timing-dependent plasticity. Behavioral effects of PCMS targeting corticomotoneuronal (CM) synapses are order- and timing-specific and partially bidirectional (Experiment III). PCMS with a 2 ms inter-arrival interval at CM-synapses enhances learning and increases corticospinal excitability compared to control protocols. Unpaired stimulations did not increase corticospinal excitability (Experiment IV). Our findings demonstrate that non-invasively induced plasticity interacts positively with experience-dependent plasticity to promote motor learning. The effects of PCMS on motor learning approximate Hebbian learning rules, while the effects on corticospinal excitability demonstrate timing-specificity but not bidirectionality. These findings offer a mechanistic rationale to enhance motor practice effects by priming sensorimotor training with individualized PCMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Rud Bjørndal
- Movement & Neuroscience, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports (NEXS), University of Copenhagen, Nørre Allé 51, Copenhagen N, Denmark.
| | - Mikkel Malling Beck
- Movement & Neuroscience, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports (NEXS), University of Copenhagen, Nørre Allé 51, Copenhagen N, Denmark
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Kettegård Allé 30, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Lasse Jespersen
- Movement & Neuroscience, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports (NEXS), University of Copenhagen, Nørre Allé 51, Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Lasse Christiansen
- Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital Amager and Hvidovre, Kettegård Allé 30, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Blegdamsvej 3B, Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Jesper Lundbye-Jensen
- Movement & Neuroscience, Department of Nutrition, Exercise and Sports (NEXS), University of Copenhagen, Nørre Allé 51, Copenhagen N, Denmark.
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Ó Murchú SC, O'Halloran KD. BREATHE DMD: boosting respiratory efficacy after therapeutic hypoxic episodes in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. J Physiol 2024. [PMID: 38837229 DOI: 10.1113/jp280280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a fatal genetic neuromuscular disorder, characterised by progressive decline in skeletal muscle function due to the secondary consequences of dystrophin deficiency. Weakness extends to the respiratory musculature, and cardiorespiratory failure is the leading cause of death in men with DMD. Intermittent hypoxia has emerged as a potential therapy to counteract ventilatory insufficiency by eliciting long-term facilitation of breathing. Mechanisms of sensory and motor facilitation of breathing have been well delineated in animal models. Various paradigms of intermittent hypoxia have been designed and implemented in human trials culminating in clinical trials in people with spinal cord injury and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Application of therapeutic intermittent hypoxia to DMD is considered together with discussion of the potential barriers to progression owing to the complexity of this devastating disease. Notwithstanding the considerable challenges and potential pitfalls of intermittent hypoxia-based therapies for DMD, we suggest it is incumbent on the research community to explore the potential benefits in pre-clinical models. Intermittent hypoxia paradigms should be implemented to explore the proclivity to express respiratory plasticity with the longer-term aim of preserving and potentiating ventilation in pre-clinical models and people with DMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seán C Ó Murchú
- Department of Physiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ken D O'Halloran
- Department of Physiology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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5
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Debenham MIB, Bruce CB, McNeil CJ, Dalton BH. Four hours of normobaric hypoxia reduces Achilles tendon reflex inhibition. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2024; 136:1468-1477. [PMID: 38601996 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00592.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Acute exposure to hypoxia increases postural sway, but the underlying neurophysiological factors are unclear. Golgi tendon organs (GTOs), located within the musculotendinous junction (MTJ), provide inhibitory signals to plantar flexor muscles that are important for balance control; however, it is uncertain if GTO function is influenced by hypoxia. The aim of this study was to determine how normobaric hypoxia influences lower limb tendon-evoked inhibitory reflexes during upright stance. We hypothesized that tendon-evoked reflex area and duration would decrease during hypoxia, indicating less inhibition of postural muscles compared with normoxia. At baseline (BL; 0.21 fraction of inspired oxygen, FIO2) and at ∼2 (H2) and 4 (H4) h of normobaric hypoxia (0.11 FIO2) in a normobaric hypoxic chamber, 16 healthy participants received electrical musculotendinous stimulation (MTstim) to the MTJ of the left Achilles tendon. The MTstim was delivered as two sets of 50 stimuli while the participant stood on a force plate with their feet together. Tendon-evoked inhibitory reflexes were recorded from the surface electromyogram of the ipsilateral medial gastrocnemius, and center of pressure (CoP) variables were recorded from the force plate. Normobaric hypoxia increased CoP velocity (P ≤ 0.002) but not CoP standard deviation (P ≥ 0.12). Compared with BL, normobaric hypoxia reduced tendon-evoked inhibitory reflex area by 45% at H2 and 53% at H4 (P ≤ 0.002). In contrast, reflex duration was unchanged during hypoxia. The reduced inhibitory feedback from the GTO pathway could likely play a role in the increased postural sway observed during acute exposure to hypoxia.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The Ib pathway arising from the Golgi tendon organ provides inhibitory signals onto motor neuron pools that modifies force and, hence, postural control. Although hypoxia influences standing balance (increases sway), the underlying mechanisms have yet to be unraveled. Our study identified that tendon-evoked inhibition onto a plantar flexor motoneuron pool is reduced by acute exposure to normobaric hypoxia. This reduction of inhibition may contribute to the hypoxia-related increase in postural sway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathew I B Debenham
- Centre for Heart, Lung, and Vascular Health, School of Health and Exercise Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Christina B Bruce
- Centre for Heart, Lung, and Vascular Health, School of Health and Exercise Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Chris J McNeil
- Centre for Heart, Lung, and Vascular Health, School of Health and Exercise Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Brian H Dalton
- Centre for Heart, Lung, and Vascular Health, School of Health and Exercise Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
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Bogard AT, Hembree TG, Pollet AK, Smith AC, Ryder SC, Marzloff G, Tan AQ. Intermittent Hypoxia-Induced Enhancements in Corticospinal Excitability Predict Gains in Motor Learning and Metabolic Efficiency. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4259378. [PMID: 38746438 PMCID: PMC11092812 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4259378/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH) enhances human motor function after incomplete spinal cord injury. Although the underlying mechanisms in humans are unknown, emerging evidence indicates that AIH facilitates corticospinal excitability to the upper limb. However, the functional relevance of this plasticity remains unexplored, and it is unclear whether similar plasticity can be induced for lower limb motor areas. We recently demonstrated that AIH improves motor learning and metabolic efficiency during split-belt walking. Thus, we hypothesized that AIH increases lower limb excitability and that these enhancements would predict the magnitude of motor learning and the corresponding reductions in net metabolic power. We assessed tibialis anterior (TA) excitability using transcranial magnetic stimulation and quantified changes in spatiotemporal asymmetries and net metabolic power in response to split-belt speed perturbations. We show that AIH enhances TA excitability, and that the magnitude of this facilitation positively correlates with greater spatiotemporal adaptation. Notably, we demonstrate a novel association between increased excitability and reduced net metabolic power during motor learning and savings. Together, our results suggest that AIH-induced gains in excitability predict both the magnitude of motor learning and the associated metabolic efficiency. Determining indices of AIH-induced improvements in motor performance is critical for optimizing its therapeutic reach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alysha T. Bogard
- Sensorimotor Recovery and Neuroplasticity Lab at the University of Colorado, Boulder, Dept. of Integrative Physiology, 80309, USA
| | - Thomas G. Hembree
- Sensorimotor Recovery and Neuroplasticity Lab at the University of Colorado, Boulder, Dept. of Integrative Physiology, 80309, USA
| | - Aviva K. Pollet
- Sensorimotor Recovery and Neuroplasticity Lab at the University of Colorado, Boulder, Dept. of Integrative Physiology, 80309, USA
| | - Andrew C. Smith
- University of Colorado School of Medicine, Dept. of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Aurora, 80045, USA
| | | | - George Marzloff
- Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, 80045, USA
| | - Andrew Q. Tan
- Sensorimotor Recovery and Neuroplasticity Lab at the University of Colorado, Boulder, Dept. of Integrative Physiology, 80309, USA
- Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, Aurora, 80045, USA
- Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado, Boulder, 80309, USA
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7
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Tan AQ, Tuthill C, Corsten AN, Barth S, Trumbower RD. A single sequence of intermittent hypoxia does not alter stretch reflex excitability in able-bodied individuals. Exp Physiol 2024; 109:576-587. [PMID: 38356241 PMCID: PMC10988685 DOI: 10.1113/ep091531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Spasticity attributable to exaggerated stretch reflex pathways, particularly affecting the ankle plantar flexors, often impairs overground walking in persons with incomplete spinal cord injury. Compelling evidence from rodent models underscores how exposure to acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH) can provide a unique medium to induce spinal plasticity in key inhibitory pathways mediating stretch reflex excitability and potentially affect spasticity. In this study, we quantify the effects of a single exposure to AIH on the stretch reflex in able-bodied individuals. We hypothesized that a single sequence of AIH will increase the stretch reflex excitability of the soleus muscle during ramp-and-hold angular perturbations applied to the ankle joint while participants perform passive and volitionally matched contractions. Our results revealed that a single AIH exposure did not significantly change the stretch reflex excitability during both passive and active matching conditions. Furthermore, we found that able-bodied individuals increased their stretch reflex response from passive to active matching conditions after both sham and AIH exposures. Together, these findings suggest that a single AIH exposure might not engage inhibitory pathways sufficiently to alter stretch reflex responses in able-bodied persons. However, the generalizability of our present findings requires further examination during repetitive exposures to AIH along with potential reflex modulation during functional movements, such as overground walking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Q. Tan
- Department of Integrative PhysiologyUniversity of ColoradoBoulderColoradoUSA
| | - Christopher Tuthill
- Department of Physical Medicine and RehabilitationHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of Physical Medicine and RehabilitationINSPIRE LaboratorySpaulding Rehabilitation HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Anthony N. Corsten
- Department of Physical Medicine and RehabilitationINSPIRE LaboratorySpaulding Rehabilitation HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Stella Barth
- Department of Physical Medicine and RehabilitationINSPIRE LaboratorySpaulding Rehabilitation HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
| | - Randy D. Trumbower
- Department of Physical Medicine and RehabilitationHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMassachusettsUSA
- Department of Physical Medicine and RehabilitationINSPIRE LaboratorySpaulding Rehabilitation HospitalBostonMassachusettsUSA
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8
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George SZ, Horn ME. Acute Intermittent Hypoxia Did Not Alter Pain Sensitivity or Pain Intensity Ratings for Individuals with Chronic Low Back Pain: A Pilot Study. J Pain Res 2024; 17:421-429. [PMID: 38328018 PMCID: PMC10848823 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s433685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Aims and Objective The purpose of this pilot study was to explore whether AIH produces changes in pain sensitivity or in reports of self-reported pain intensity for individuals with low back pain. Methods In a quasi-experimental, cross-over design we compared participants (n = 9) exposed to normal room air and hypoxia using a commercially available gas blender. The treatment period consisted of 5 consecutive days of randomly assigned to AIH or room air. For the participants initially randomized to AIH there was cross-over to receive 5 more consecutive days of room air. Therefore, this design allowed for between group and within subject assessment of AIH effects. Pain sensitivity was assessed with quantitative sensory testing (QST) for posterior superior iliac spine pressure threshold, plantar thermal threshold, and peak pain ratings. Self-reported pain intensity for low back pain was assessed via the Brief Pain Inventory. Results There were no between group differences for AIH and room air in pain sensitivity or self-reported pain intensity. In the within subject analyses larger effect sizes favoring AIH were detected for plantar measures of pain sensitivity but not for self-reported pain intensity. Conclusion This study, while presenting null findings, describes an initial step in determining whether AIH can be used to increase pain relief. Based on this pilot study we offer guidance for future research including study design, AIH dosage, participant selection, and using AIH in combination with non-pharmacologic treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Z George
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery and Population Health Science, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Maggie E Horn
- Departments of Orthopaedic Surgery and Population Health Science, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
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9
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Janssen Daalen JM, Koopman WJH, Saris CGJ, Meinders MJ, Thijssen DHJ, Bloem BR. The Hypoxia Response Pathway: A Potential Intervention Target in Parkinson's Disease? Mov Disord 2024; 39:273-293. [PMID: 38140810 DOI: 10.1002/mds.29688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder for which only symptomatic treatments are available. Both preclinical and clinical studies suggest that moderate hypoxia induces evolutionarily conserved adaptive mechanisms that enhance neuronal viability and survival. Therefore, targeting the hypoxia response pathway might provide neuroprotection by ameliorating the deleterious effects of mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress, which underlie neurodegeneration in PD. Here, we review experimental studies regarding the link between PD pathophysiology and neurophysiological adaptations to hypoxia. We highlight the mechanistic differences between the rescuing effects of chronic hypoxia in neurodegeneration and short-term moderate hypoxia to improve neuronal resilience, termed "hypoxic conditioning". Moreover, we interpret these preclinical observations regarding the pharmacological targeting of the hypoxia response pathway. Finally, we discuss controversies with respect to the differential effects of hypoxia response pathway activation across the PD spectrum, as well as intervention dosing in hypoxic conditioning and potential harmful effects of such interventions. We recommend that initial clinical studies in PD should focus on the safety, physiological responses, and mechanisms of hypoxic conditioning, as well as on repurposing of existing pharmacological compounds. © 2023 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jules M Janssen Daalen
- Center of Expertise for Parkinson and Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Nijmegen, the Netherlands, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Physiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Werner J H Koopman
- Department of Pediatrics, Amalia Children's Hospital, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Radboud Center for Mitochondrial Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Human and Animal Physiology, Wageningen University, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Christiaan G J Saris
- Department of Neurology, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Radboud Center for Mitochondrial Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marjan J Meinders
- Center of Expertise for Parkinson and Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Nijmegen, the Netherlands, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Dick H J Thijssen
- Department of Physiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Bastiaan R Bloem
- Center of Expertise for Parkinson and Movement Disorders, Department of Neurology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Nijmegen, the Netherlands, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Radboud University Medical Center, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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10
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Urbin MA, Lafe CW, Bautista ME, Wittenberg GF, Simpson TW. Effects of noninvasive neuromodulation targeting the spinal cord on early learning of force control by the digits. CNS Neurosci Ther 2024; 30:e14561. [PMID: 38421127 PMCID: PMC10851178 DOI: 10.1111/cns.14561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS Control of finger forces underlies our capacity for skilled hand movements acquired during development and reacquired after neurological injury. Learning force control by the digits, therefore, predicates our functional independence. Noninvasive neuromodulation targeting synapses that link corticospinal neurons onto the final common pathway via spike-timing-dependent mechanisms can alter distal limb motor output on a transient basis, yet these effects appear subject to individual differences. Here, we investigated how this form of noninvasive neuromodulation interacts with task repetition to influence early learning of force control during precision grip. METHODS The unique effects of neuromodulation, task repetition, and neuromodulation coinciding with task repetition were tested in three separate conditions using a within-subject, cross-over design (n = 23). RESULTS We found that synchronizing depolarization events within milliseconds of stabilizing precision grip accelerated learning but only after accounting for individual differences through inclusion of subjects who showed upregulated corticospinal excitability at 2 of 3 time points following conditioning stimulation (n = 19). CONCLUSIONS Our findings provide insights into how the state of the corticospinal system can be leveraged to drive early motor skill learning, further emphasizing individual differences in the response to noninvasive neuromodulation. We interpret these findings in the context of biological mechanisms underlying the observed effects and implications for emerging therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A. Urbin
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, VA RR&D Center of ExcellenceVA Pittsburgh Healthcare SystemPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Charley W. Lafe
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, VA RR&D Center of ExcellenceVA Pittsburgh Healthcare SystemPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Manuel E. Bautista
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, VA RR&D Center of ExcellenceVA Pittsburgh Healthcare SystemPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - George F. Wittenberg
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, VA RR&D Center of ExcellenceVA Pittsburgh Healthcare SystemPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
- Department of NeurologyUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
- Rehabilitation Neural Engineering Laboratories, Department of Physical Medicine & RehabilitationUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Tyler W. Simpson
- Rehabilitation Neural Engineering Laboratories, Department of Physical Medicine & RehabilitationUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPennsylvaniaUSA
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11
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Wu YK, Wecht JM, Bloom OE, Panza GS, Harel NY. Remote Ischemic conditioning as an emerging tool to improve corticospinal transmission in individuals with chronic spinal cord injury. Curr Opin Neurol 2023; 36:523-530. [PMID: 37865833 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000001216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Remote ischemic conditioning (RIC) involves transient blood flow restriction to one limb leading to systemic tissue-protective effects. RIC shares some potential underlying mechanisms with intermittent hypoxia (IH), in which brief bouts of systemic hypoxia trigger increases in growth factor expression and neural plasticity. RIC has shown promise in acute myocardial infarction and stroke but may be applicable toward chronic neuropathology as well. Consequently, this review discusses similarities and differences between RIC and IH and presents preliminary and ongoing research findings regarding RIC. RECENT FINDINGS Several publications demonstrated that combining RIC with motor training may enhance motor learning in adults with intact nervous systems, though the precise mechanisms were unclear. Our own preliminary data has found that RIC, in conjunction with task specific exercise, can increase corticospinal excitability in a subset of people without neurological injury and in those with chronic cervical spinal cord injury or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. SUMMARY RIC is a low-cost intervention easy to deliver in a clinical or home setting. Its potential application to facilitate neural plasticity and motor learning during rehabilitation training for individuals with chronic neurological disorders is a novel concept requiring further investigation to characterize mechanisms, safety, and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Kuang Wu
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center
| | - Jill M Wecht
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center
| | - Ona E Bloom
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center
- The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research
- The Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra Northwell
| | - Gino S Panza
- The Department of Healthcare Science Program of Occupational Therapy, Wayne State University
- John D. Dingell VA Medical Center, USA
| | - Noam Y Harel
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- James J. Peters VA Medical Center
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12
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Bogard AT, Hemmerle MR, Smith AC, Tan AQ. Enhanced motor learning and motor savings after acute intermittent hypoxia are associated with a reduction in metabolic cost. J Physiol 2023:10.1113/JP285425. [PMID: 37983629 PMCID: PMC11102937 DOI: 10.1113/jp285425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Breathing mild bouts of low oxygen air (i.e. acute intermittent hypoxia, AIH) has been shown to improve locomotor function in humans after a spinal cord injury. How AIH-induced gains in motor performance are achieved remains unclear. We examined the hypothesis that AIH augments motor learning and motor retention during a locomotor adaptation task. We further hypothesized that gains in motor learning and retention will be associated with reductions in net metabolic power, consistent with the acquisition of energetically favourable mechanics. Thirty healthy individuals were randomly allocated into either a control group or an AIH group. We utilized a split-belt treadmill to characterize adaptations to an unexpected belt speed perturbation of equal magnitude during an initial exposure and a second exposure. Adaptation was characterized by changes in spatiotemporal step asymmetry, anterior-posterior force asymmetry, and net metabolic power. While both groups adapted by reducing spatial asymmetry, only the AIH group achieved significant reductions in double support time asymmetry and propulsive force asymmetry during both the initial and the second exposures to the belt speed perturbation. Net metabolic power was also significantly lower in the AIH group, with significant reductions from the initial perturbation exposure to the second. These results provide the first evidence that AIH mediates improvements in both motor learning and retention. Further, our results suggest that reductions in net metabolic power continue to be optimized upon subsequent learning and are driven by more energetically favourable temporal coordination strategies. Our observation that AIH facilitates motor learning and retention can be leveraged to design rehabilitation interventions that promote functional recovery. KEY POINTS: Brief exposures to low oxygen air, known as acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH), improves locomotor function in humans after a spinal cord injury, but it remains unclear how gains in motor performance are achieved. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that AIH induces enhancements in motor learning and retention by quantifying changes in interlimb coordination, anterior-posterior force symmetry and metabolic cost during a locomotor adaptation task. We show the first evidence that AIH improves both motor learning and savings of newly learned temporal interlimb coordination strategies and force asymmetry compared to untreated individuals. We further demonstrate that AIH elicits greater reductions in metabolic cost during motor learning that continues to be optimized upon subsequent learning. Our findings suggest that AIH-induced gains in locomotor performance are facilitated by enhancements in motor learning and retention of more energetically favourable coordination strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alysha T Bogard
- Sensorimotor Recovery and Neuroplasticity Lab at the University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Makenna R Hemmerle
- Sensorimotor Recovery and Neuroplasticity Lab at the University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Andrew C Smith
- Dept. of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Andrew Q Tan
- Sensorimotor Recovery and Neuroplasticity Lab at the University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
- Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
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Márquez G, Colomer D, Benavente C, Morenilla L, Alix-Fages C, Padial P, Feriche B. Altitude-induced effects on neuromuscular, metabolic and perceptual responses before, during and after a high-intensity resistance training session. Eur J Appl Physiol 2023; 123:2119-2129. [PMID: 37209140 PMCID: PMC10492878 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-023-05195-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We tested if an acute ascending to 2320 m above sea level (asl) affects corticospinal excitability (CSE) and intracortical inhibition (SICI) measured with transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) at rest, before, during and after a traditional hypertrophy-oriented resistance training (RT) session. We also explored whether blood lactate concentration (BLa), ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), perceived muscular pain and total training volume differed when the RT session was performed at hypoxia (H) or normoxia (N). METHODS Twelve resistance-trained men performed eight sets of 10 repetitions at 70% of one repetition maximum of a bar biceps curl at N (SpO2 = 98.0 ± 0.9%) and H (at 2320 asl, SpO2 = 94.0 ± 1.9%) in random order. Before each session, a subjective well-being questionnaire, the resting motor threshold (rMT) and a single pulse recruitment curve were measured. Before, during and after the RT session, BLa, RPE, muscle pain, CSE and SICI were measured. RESULTS Before the RT session only the rMT differed between H (- 5.3%) and N (ES = 0.38). RPE, muscle pain and BLa increased through the RT session and were greater at H than N (12%, 54% and 15%, respectively) despite a similar training volume (1618 ± 468 kg vs. 1638 ± 509 kg). CSE was reduced during the RT session (~ 27%) but recovered ten minutes after, regardless of the environmental condition. SICI did not change after any RT session. CONCLUSIONS The data suggest that acute exposure to moderate hypoxia slightly increased the excitability of the most excitable structures of the corticospinal tract but did not influence intracortical or corticospinal responses to a single RT session.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gonzalo Márquez
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, Faculty of Sports Sciences and Physical Education, University of A Coruna, Avda. Ernesto Che Guevara, 121-Pazos-Liáns, 15179, Oleiros, A Coruña, Spain.
| | - David Colomer
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, Faculty of Sports Sciences and Physical Education, University of A Coruna, Avda. Ernesto Che Guevara, 121-Pazos-Liáns, 15179, Oleiros, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Cristina Benavente
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, Faculty of Sports Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Luis Morenilla
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, Faculty of Sports Sciences and Physical Education, University of A Coruna, Avda. Ernesto Che Guevara, 121-Pazos-Liáns, 15179, Oleiros, A Coruña, Spain
| | - Carlos Alix-Fages
- Applied Biomechanics and Sports Technology Research Group, Autonomous University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Paulino Padial
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, Faculty of Sports Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Belén Feriche
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, Faculty of Sports Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
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14
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Dempsey JA, Welch JF. Control of Breathing. Semin Respir Crit Care Med 2023; 44:627-649. [PMID: 37494141 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1770342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Substantial advances have been made recently into the discovery of fundamental mechanisms underlying the neural control of breathing and even some inroads into translating these findings to treating breathing disorders. Here, we review several of these advances, starting with an appreciation of the importance of V̇A:V̇CO2:PaCO2 relationships, then summarizing our current understanding of the mechanisms and neural pathways for central rhythm generation, chemoreception, exercise hyperpnea, plasticity, and sleep-state effects on ventilatory control. We apply these fundamental principles to consider the pathophysiology of ventilatory control attending hypersensitized chemoreception in select cardiorespiratory diseases, the pathogenesis of sleep-disordered breathing, and the exertional hyperventilation and dyspnea associated with aging and chronic diseases. These examples underscore the critical importance that many ventilatory control issues play in disease pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerome A Dempsey
- John Rankin Laboratory of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Joseph F Welch
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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15
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Afsharipour B, Pearcey GEP, Rymer WZ, Sandhu MS. Acute intermittent hypoxia enhances strength, and modulates spatial distribution of muscle activation in persons with chronic incomplete spinal cord injury. Exp Neurol 2023; 367:114452. [PMID: 37271217 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2023.114452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH) is an emerging technique for facilitating neural plasticity in individuals with chronic incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI). A single sequence of AIH enhances hand grip strength and ankle plantarflexion torque, but underlying mechanisms are not yet clear. We sought to examine how AIH-induced changes in magnitude and spatial distribution of the electromyogram (EMG) of the biceps and triceps brachii contributes to improved strength. Seven individuals with iSCI visited the laboratory on two occasions, and received either AIH or Sham AIH intervention in a randomized order. AIH consisted of 15 brief (∼60s) periods of low oxygen (fraction of inspired O2 = 0.09) alternating with 60s of normoxia, whereas Sham AIH consisted of repeated exposures to normoxic air. High-density surface EMG of biceps and triceps brachii was recorded during maximal elbow flexion and extension. We then generated spatial maps which distinguished active muscle regions prior to and 60 min after AIH or Sham AIH. After an AIH sequence, elbow flexion and extension forces increased by 91.7 ± 88.4% and 51.7 ± 57.8% from baseline, respectively, whereas there was no difference after Sham AIH. Changes in strength were associated with an altered spatial distribution of EMG and increased root mean squared EMG amplitude in both biceps and triceps brachii muscles. These data suggest that altered motor unit activation profiles may underlie improved volitional strength after a single dose of AIH and warrant further investigation using single motor unit analysis techniques to further elucidate mechanisms of AIH-induced plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babak Afsharipour
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Canada; Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Gregory E P Pearcey
- School of Human Kinetics and Recreation, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA; Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - W Zev Rymer
- Department of Neuroscience, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Milap S Sandhu
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
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16
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McKeown DJ, Stewart GM, Kavanagh JJ. The severity of acute hypoxaemia determines distinct changes in intracortical and spinal neural circuits. Exp Physiol 2023; 108:1203-1214. [PMID: 37548581 PMCID: PMC10988465 DOI: 10.1113/ep091224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine how two common methods of continuous hypoxaemia impact the activity of intracortical circuits responsible for inhibition and facilitation of motor output, and spinal excitability. Ten participants were exposed to 2 h of hypoxaemia at 0.13 fraction of inspired oxygen (F I O 2 ${F_{{\mathrm{I}}{{\mathrm{O}}_{\mathrm{2}}}}}$ clamping protocol) and 80% of peripheral capillary oxygen saturation (S p O 2 ${S_{{\mathrm{p}}{{\mathrm{O}}_{\mathrm{2}}}}}$ clamping protocol) using a simulating altitude device on two visits separated by a week. Using transcranial magnetic and peripheral nerve stimulation, unconditioned motor evoked potential (MEP) area, short-interval intracortical inhibition (SICI) and intracortical facilitation (ICF), and F-wave persistence and area were assessed in the first dorsal interosseous (FDI) muscle before titration, after 1 and 2 h of hypoxic exposure, and at reoxygenation. The clamping protocols resulted in differing reductions inS p O 2 ${S_{{\mathrm{p}}{{\mathrm{O}}_{\mathrm{2}}}}}$ by 2 h (S p O 2 ${S_{{\mathrm{p}}{{\mathrm{O}}_{\mathrm{2}}}}}$ clamping protocol: 81.9 ± 1.3%,F I O 2 ${F_{{\mathrm{I}}{{\mathrm{O}}_{\mathrm{2}}}}}$ clamping protocol: 90.6 ± 2.5%). Although unconditioned MEP peak to peak amplitude and area did not differ between the protocols, SICI duringF I O 2 ${F_{{\mathrm{I}}{{\mathrm{O}}_{\mathrm{2}}}}}$ clamping was significantly lower at 2 h compared toS p O 2 ${S_{{\mathrm{p}}{{\mathrm{O}}_{\mathrm{2}}}}}$ clamping (P = 0.011) and baseline (P < 0.001), whereas ICF was higher throughout theF I O 2 ${F_{{\mathrm{I}}{{\mathrm{O}}_{\mathrm{2}}}}}$ clamping compared toS p O 2 ${S_{{\mathrm{p}}{{\mathrm{O}}_{\mathrm{2}}}}}$ clamping (P = 0.005). Furthermore, a negative correlation between SICI andS p O 2 ${S_{{\mathrm{p}}{{\mathrm{O}}_{\mathrm{2}}}}}$ (rrm = -0.56, P = 0.002) and a positive correlation between ICF andS p O 2 ${S_{{\mathrm{p}}{{\mathrm{O}}_{\mathrm{2}}}}}$ (rrm = 0.69, P = 0.001) were determined, where greater reductions inS p O 2 ${S_{{\mathrm{p}}{{\mathrm{O}}_{\mathrm{2}}}}}$ correlated with less inhibition and less facilitation of MEP responses. Although F-wave area progressively increased similarly throughout the protocols (P = 0.037), persistence of responses was reduced at 2 h and reoxygenation (P < 0.01) during theS p O 2 ${S_{{\mathrm{p}}{{\mathrm{O}}_{\mathrm{2}}}}}$ clamping protocol compared to theF I O 2 ${F_{{\mathrm{I}}{{\mathrm{O}}_{\mathrm{2}}}}}$ clamping protocol. After 2 h of hypoxic exposure, there is a reduction in the activity of intracortical circuits responsible for inhibiting motor output, as well as excitability of spinal motoneurones. However, these effects can be influenced by other physiological responses to hypoxia (i.e., hyperventilation and hypocapnia). NEW FINDINGS: What is the central question of this study? How do two common methods of acute hypoxic exposure influence the excitability of intracortical networks and spinal circuits responsible for motor output? What is the main finding and its importance? The excitability of spinal circuits and intracortical networks responsible for inhibition of motor output was reduced during severe acute exposure to hypoxia at 2 h, but this was not seen during less severe exposure. This provides insight into the potential cause of variance seen in motor evoked potential responses to transcranial magnetic stimulation (corticospinal excitability measures) when exposed to hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J. McKeown
- Neural Control of Movement LaboratoryMenzies Health Institute QueenslandGriffith UniversityGold CoastQueenslandAustralia
- Department of PsychologyFaculty of Society and DesignBond UniversityGold CoastQueenslandAustralia
| | - Glenn M. Stewart
- Menzies Health Institute QueenslandGriffith UniversityGold CoastQueenslandAustralia
- Allied Health Research CollaborativeThe Prince Charles HospitalBrisbaneQueenslandAustralia
- Charles Perkins CentreThe University of SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
| | - Justin J. Kavanagh
- Neural Control of Movement LaboratoryMenzies Health Institute QueenslandGriffith UniversityGold CoastQueenslandAustralia
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17
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Tokarska N, Naniong JMA, Johnston JM, Salapa HE, Muir GD, Levin MC, Popescu BF, Verge VMK. Acute intermittent hypoxia alters disease course and promotes CNS repair including resolution of inflammation and remyelination in the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis model of MS. Glia 2023; 71:2045-2066. [PMID: 37132422 DOI: 10.1002/glia.24381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Remyelination and neurodegeneration prevention mitigate disability in Multiple Sclerosis (MS). We have shown acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH) is a novel, non-invasive and effective therapy for peripheral nerve repair, including remyelination. Thus, we posited AIH would improve repair following CNS demyelination and address the paucity of MS repair treatments. AIH's capacity to enhance intrinsic repair, functional recovery and alter disease course in the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model of MS was assessed. EAE was induced by MOG35-55 immunization in C57BL/6 female mice. EAE mice received either AIH (10 cycles-5 min 11% oxygen alternating with 5 min 21% oxygen) or Normoxia (control; 21% oxygen for same duration) once daily for 7d beginning at near peak EAE disease score of 2.5. Mice were followed post-treatment for an additional 7d before assessing histopathology or 14d to examine maintenance of AIH effects. Alterations in histopathological correlates of multiple repair indices were analyzed quantitatively in focally demyelinated ventral lumbar spinal cord areas to assess AIH impacts. AIH begun at near peak disease significantly improved daily clinical scores/functional recovery and associated histopathology relative to Normoxia controls and the former were maintained for at least 14d post-treatment. AIH enhanced correlates of myelination, axon protection and oligodendrocyte precursor cell recruitment to demyelinated areas. AIH also effected a dramatic reduction in inflammation, while polarizing remaining macrophages/microglia toward a pro-repair state. Collectively, this supports a role for AIH as a novel non-invasive therapy to enhance CNS repair and alter disease course following demyelination and holds promise as a neuroregenerative MS strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataliya Tokarska
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
- Cameco MS Neuroscience Research Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Justin M A Naniong
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
- Cameco MS Neuroscience Research Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Jayne M Johnston
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
- Cameco MS Neuroscience Research Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Hannah E Salapa
- Cameco MS Neuroscience Research Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
- Office of the Saskatchewan Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Research Chair, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
- College of Medicine, Neurology Division, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Gillian D Muir
- Cameco MS Neuroscience Research Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, WCVM, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Michael C Levin
- Cameco MS Neuroscience Research Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
- Office of the Saskatchewan Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Research Chair, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
- College of Medicine, Neurology Division, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Bogdan F Popescu
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
- Cameco MS Neuroscience Research Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Valerie M K Verge
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
- Cameco MS Neuroscience Research Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
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18
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Thakkar B, Peterson CL, Acevedo EO. Prolonged continuous theta burst stimulation increases motor corticospinal excitability and intracortical inhibition in patients with neuropathic pain: An exploratory, single-blinded, randomized controlled trial. Neurophysiol Clin 2023; 53:102894. [PMID: 37659135 PMCID: PMC10592401 DOI: 10.1016/j.neucli.2023.102894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES A new paradigm for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), referred to as prolonged continuous theta burst stimulation (pcTBS), has recently received attention in the literature because of its advantages over high frequency repetitive TMS (HF-rTMS). Clinical advantages include less time per intervention session and the effects appear to be more robust and reproducible than HF-rTMS to modulate cortical excitability. HF-rTMS targeted at the primary motor cortex (M1) has demonstrated analgesic effects in patients with neuropathic pain but their mechanisms of action are unclear and pcTBS has been studied in healthy subjects only. This study examined the neural mechanisms that have been proposed to play a role in explaining the effects of pcTBS targeted at the M1 and DLPFC brain regions in neuropathic pain (NP) patients with Type 2 diabetes. METHODS Forty-two patients with painful diabetic neuropathy were randomized to receive a single session of pcTBS targeted at the left M1 or left DLPFC. pcTBS stimulation consisted of 1,200 pulses delivered in 1 min and 44 s with a 35-45 min gap between sham and active pcTBS stimulation. Both the activity of the descending pain system which was examined using conditioned pain modulation and the activity of the ascending pain system which was assessed using temporal summation of pain were recorded using a handheld pressure algometer by measuring pressure pain thresholds. The amplitude of the motor evoked potential (MEP) was used to measure motor corticospinal excitability and GABA activity was assessed using short (SICI) and long intracortical inhibition (LICI). All these measurements were performed at baseline and post-pcTBS stimulation. RESULTS Following a single session of pcTBS targeted at M1 and DLPFC, there was no change in BPI-DN scores and on the activity of the descending (measured using conditioned pain modulation) and ascending pain systems (measured using temporal summation of pain) compared to baseline but there was a significant improvement of >13% in perception of acute pain intensity, increased motor corticospinal excitability (measured using MEP amplitude) and intracortical inhibition (measured using SICI and LICI). CONCLUSION In patients with NP, a single session of pcTBS targeted at the M1 and DLPFC modulated the neurophysiological mechanisms related to motor corticospinal excitability and neurochemical mechanisms linked to GABA activity, but it did not modulate the activity of the ascending and descending endogenous modulatory systems. In addition, although BPI-DN scores did not change, there was a 13% improvement in self-reported perception of acute pain intensity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhushan Thakkar
- Department of Physical Therapy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States.
| | - Carrie L Peterson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Edmund O Acevedo
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
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19
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Janssen Daalen JM, Meinders MJ, Giardina F, Roes KCB, Stunnenberg BC, Mathur S, Ainslie PN, Thijssen DHJ, Bloem BR. Multiple N-of-1 trials to investigate hypoxia therapy in Parkinson's disease: study rationale and protocol. BMC Neurol 2022; 22:262. [PMID: 35836147 PMCID: PMC9281145 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-022-02770-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease, for which no disease-modifying therapies exist. Preclinical and clinical evidence suggest that hypoxia-based therapy might have short- and long-term benefits in PD. We present the contours of the first study to assess the safety, feasibility and physiological and symptomatic impact of hypoxia-based therapy in individuals with PD. Methods/Design In 20 individuals with PD, we will investigate the safety, tolerability and short-term symptomatic efficacy of continuous and intermittent hypoxia using individual, double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled N-of-1 trials. This design allows for dose finding and for including more individualized outcomes, as each individual serves as its own control. A wide range of exploratory outcomes is deployed, including the Movement Disorders Society Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating scale (MDS-UPDRS) part III, Timed Up & Go Test, Mini Balance Evaluation Systems (MiniBES) test and wrist accelerometry. Also, self-reported impression of overall symptoms, motor and non-motor symptoms and urge to take dopaminergic medication will be assessed on a 10-point Likert scale. As part of a hypothesis-generating part of the study, we also deploy several exploratory outcomes to probe possible underlying mechanisms of action, including cortisol, erythropoietin and platelet-derived growth factor β. Efficacy will be assessed primarily by a Bayesian analysis. Discussion This evaluation of hypoxia therapy could provide insight in novel pathways that may be pursued for PD treatment. This trial also serves as a proof of concept for deploying an N-of-1 design and for including individualized outcomes in PD research, as a basis for personalized treatment approaches. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05214287 (registered January 28, 2022).
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12883-022-02770-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jules M Janssen Daalen
- Center of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders; Nijmegen, the Netherlands, Department of Neurology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Marjan J Meinders
- Center of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders; Nijmegen, the Netherlands, Department of Neurology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,IQ Healthcare, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Federica Giardina
- Department of Health Evidence, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Section Biostatistics, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Kit C B Roes
- Department of Health Evidence, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Section Biostatistics, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Bas C Stunnenberg
- Department of Neurology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Department of Neurology, Rijnstate Hospital, Arnhem, Netherlands
| | | | - Philip N Ainslie
- Center for Heart, Lung and Vascular Health, School of Health and Exercise Sciences, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, Canada
| | - Dick H J Thijssen
- Department of Physiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Bastiaan R Bloem
- Center of Expertise for Parkinson & Movement Disorders; Nijmegen, the Netherlands, Department of Neurology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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20
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Effects of acute intermittent hypoxia on corticospinal excitability within the primary motor cortex. Eur J Appl Physiol 2022; 122:2111-2123. [PMID: 35752660 PMCID: PMC9381468 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-022-04982-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH) is a safe and non-invasive treatment approach that uses brief, repetitive periods of breathing reduced oxygen air alternated with normoxia. While AIH is known to affect spinal circuit excitability, the effects of AIH on cortical excitability remain largely unknown. We investigated the effects of AIH on cortical excitability within the primary motor cortex. Methods Eleven healthy, right-handed participants completed two testing sessions: (1) AIH (comprising 3 min in hypoxia [fraction of inspired oxygen ~ 10%] and 2 min in normoxia repeated over five cycles) and (2) normoxia (NOR) (equivalent duration to AIH). Single- and paired-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulations were delivered to the primary motor cortex, before and 0, 25, and 50 min after AIH and normoxia. Results The mean nadir in arterial oxygen saturation was lower (p < 0.001) during the cycles of AIH (82.5 ± 4.9%) than NOR (97.8 ± 0.6%). There was no significant difference in corticospinal excitability, intracortical facilitation, or intracortical inhibition between AIH and normoxia conditions at any time point (all p > 0.05). There was no association between arterial oxygen saturation and changes in corticospinal excitability after AIH (r = 0.05, p = 0.87). Conclusion Overall, AIH did not modify either corticospinal excitability or excitability of intracortical facilitatory and inhibitory circuits within the primary motor cortex. Future research should explore whether a more severe or individualised AIH dose would induce consistent, measurable changes in corticospinal excitability. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00421-022-04982-8.
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Argent LP, Bose A, Paton JFR. Intra-carotid body inter-cellular communication. J R Soc N Z 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/03036758.2022.2079681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Liam P. Argent
- Manaaki Manawa – the Centre for Heart Research, Department of Physiology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Aabharika Bose
- Manaaki Manawa – the Centre for Heart Research, Department of Physiology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Julian F. R. Paton
- Manaaki Manawa – the Centre for Heart Research, Department of Physiology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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22
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Pollet A. A commentary on: Efficacy and time course of acute intermittent hypoxia effects in the upper extremities of people with cervical spinal cord injury. Exp Neurol 2022; 355:114123. [PMID: 35623393 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2022.114123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Aviva Pollet
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, USA.
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Behrens M. New insights into the effects of acute intermittent hypoxia on neural plasticity in the human motor system. Exp Physiol 2022; 107:560-561. [DOI: 10.1113/ep090462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Behrens
- Department of Sport Science Institute III Otto‐von‐Guericke University Magdeburg Magdeburg Germany
- Department of Orthopedics Rostock University Medical Center Rostock Germany
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24
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Tomazin K, Strojnik V, Feriche B, Garcia Ramos A, Štrumbelj B, Stirn I. Neuromuscular Adaptations in Elite Swimmers During Concurrent Strength and Endurance Training at Low and Moderate Altitudes. J Strength Cond Res 2022; 36:1111-1119. [PMID: 32235239 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000003566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Tomazin, K, Strojnik, V, Feriche, B, Garcia Ramos, A, Štrumbelj, B, and Stirn, I. Neuromuscular adaptations in elite swimmers during concurrent strength and endurance training at low and moderate altitudes. J Strength Cond Res 36(4): 1111-1119, 2022-This study evaluated neuromuscular adaptations in elite swimmers during concurrent strength and endurance training (SET) at low (295 m) and moderate (2,320 m) altitudes. Sixteen elite swimmers took part in a 3-week SET during a general preparation phase. All neuromuscular tests were performed a week before and after a SET. In posttraining, maximal knee isometric torque (TMVC) and soleus H-reflex remained statistically unchanged for sea-level (SL) and for altitude (AL) training. Rate of torque development (RTD) decreased post-SL (-14.5%; p < 0.01) but not post-AL (-4.7%; p > 0.05) training. Vastus lateralis electromyographic (EMG) activity during RTD decreased post-SL (-17.0%; P = 0.05) but not post-AL (4.8%; p > 0.05) training. Quadriceps twitch torque (TTW) significantly increased post-AL (12.1%; p < 0.01) but not post-SL (-1.0%; p > 0.05; training × altitude: F1,15 = 12.4; p < 0.01) training. Quadriceps twitch contraction time and M-wave amplitude remained statistically unchanged post-SL and post-AL training. After SL training, increment in TMVC was accompanied with increment in vastus lateralis EMG (R = 0.76; p < 0.01) and TTW (R = 0.48; p < 0.06). Posttraining in AL, increment in TMVC was accompanied with increment in TTW (R = 0.54; p < 0.05). Strength and endurance training at altitude seems to prompt adaptations in twitch contractile properties. In contrast, SET performed at SL may hamper the magnitude of neural adaptations to strength training, particularly during rapid voluntary contractions. In conclusion, SET at AL might benefit muscular adaptations in swimmers compared with training at SL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katja Tomazin
- Faculty of Sport, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia; and
| | - Vojko Strojnik
- Faculty of Sport, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia; and
| | - Belen Feriche
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Amador Garcia Ramos
- Department of Physical Education and Sport, Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Boro Štrumbelj
- Faculty of Sport, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia; and
| | - Igor Stirn
- Faculty of Sport, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia; and
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Welch JF, Nair J, Argento PJ, Mitchell GS, Fox EJ. Acute intermittent hypercapnic-hypoxia elicits central neural respiratory motor plasticity in humans. J Physiol 2022; 600:2515-2533. [PMID: 35348218 DOI: 10.1113/jp282822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS The occurrence of respiratory long-term facilitation following acute exposure to intermittent hypoxia is believed to be dependent upon CO2 regulation - mechanisms governing the critical role of CO2 have seldom been explored. We tested the hypothesis that acute intermittent hypercapnic-hypoxia (AIHH) enhances cortico-phrenic neurotransmission in awake healthy humans. The amplitude of diaphragmatic motor-evoked potentials induced by transcranial magnetic stimulation was increased after AIHH, but not the amplitude of compound muscle action potentials evoked by cervical magnetic stimulation. Mouth occlusion pressure (P0.1 , indicator of neural respiratory drive) was also increased after AIHH, but not tidal volume or minute ventilation. Thus, moderate AIHH elicits central neural mechanisms of respiratory motor plasticity, without measurable ventilatory long-term facilitation in awake humans. ABSTRACT Acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH) elicits long-term facilitation (LTF) of respiration. Although LTF is observed when CO2 is elevated during AIH in awake humans, the influence of CO2 on corticospinal respiratory motor plasticity is unknown. Thus, we tested the hypotheses that acute intermittent hypercapnic-hypoxia (AIHH): 1) enhances cortico-phrenic neurotransmission (reflecting volitional respiratory control); and 2) elicits ventilatory LTF (reflecting automatic respiratory control). Eighteen healthy adults completed four study visits. Day 1 consisted of anthropometry and pulmonary function testing. On Days 2, 3 and 4, in a balanced alternating sequence, participants received: AIHH, poikilocapnic AIH, and normocapnic-normoxia (Sham). Protocols consisted of 15, 60-s exposures with 90-s normoxic intervals. Transcranial (TMS) and cervical (CMS) magnetic stimulation were used to induce diaphragmatic motor-evoked potentials and compound muscle action potentials, respectively. Respiratory drive was assessed via mouth occlusion pressure (P0.1 ), and minute ventilation measured at rest. Dependent variables were assessed at baseline and 30-60 min post-exposures. Increases in TMS-evoked diaphragm potential amplitudes were observed following AIHH versus Sham (+28 ± 41%, p = 0.003), but not after AIH. No changes were observed in CMS-evoked diaphragm potential amplitudes. Mouth occlusion pressure also increased after AIHH (+21 ± 34%, p = 0.033), but not after AIH. Ventilatory LTF was not observed after any treatment. We demonstrate that AIHH elicits central neural mechanisms of respiratory motor plasticity and increases resting respiratory drive in awake humans. These findings may have important implications for neurorehabilitation after spinal cord injury and other neuromuscular disorders compromising respiratory motor function. Abstract Figure Legend In a single-blind, cross-over, sham-controlled trial, 18 healthy adults received in a balanced alternating sequence: normocapnic-normoxia (Sham), poikilocapnic acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH), and acute intermittent hypercapnic-hypoxia (AIHH). The study tested the hypothesis that AIHH enhances cortico-phrenic neurotransmission and elicits ventilatory long-term facilitation. Note the increase in the mean amplitude of diaphragmatic motor-evoked potentials (MEP) induced by transcranial magnetic stimulation 60 min after AIHH only, whereas the amplitude of diaphragmatic compound muscle action potentials evoked by cervical (phrenic nerve) stimulation were unchanged after AIHH, AIH and Sham. Traces are composite averages of all participants. Mouth occlusion pressure (P0.1 ), an indicator of resting respiratory drive, was increased after AIHH, but not after AIH or Sham (see yellow shaded area). Traces are mouth pressure at the onset of an occluded inspiration during resting breathing. Finally, tidal volume (VT ) was unchanged 30-60 min after AIHH, AIH and Sham. Our results indicate that moderate AIHH elicits a central neural mechanism of respiratory motor plasticity and increases resting respiratory drive in awake humans, without measurable ventilatory long-term facilitation. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph F Welch
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Centre.,Department of Physical Therapy
| | - Jayakrishnan Nair
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Centre.,Department of Physical Therapy.,Department of Physical Therapy, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Patrick J Argento
- Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Gordon S Mitchell
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Centre.,Department of Physical Therapy
| | - Emily J Fox
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Centre.,Department of Physical Therapy.,Brooks Rehabilitation, Jacksonville, FL, USA
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26
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Finn HT, Bogdanovski O, Hudson AL, McCaughey EJ, Crawford MR, Taylor JL, Butler JE, Gandevia SC. The effect of acute intermittent hypoxia on human limb motoneurone output. Exp Physiol 2022; 107:615-630. [PMID: 35338753 DOI: 10.1113/ep090099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
NEW FINDINGS What is the central question of this study? Does a single session of repeated bouts of acute intermittent hypoxic breathing enhance the motoneuronal output of the limb muscles of healthy able-bodied participants? What is the main finding and its importance? Compared to breathing room air, there were some increases in motoneuronal output following acute intermittent hypoxia, but the increases were variable across participants, in time after the intervention and depended on which neurophysiological measure was checked. ABSTRACT Acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH) induces persistent increases in output from rat phrenic motoneurones. Studies in people with spinal cord injury suggest AIH improves limb performance, perhaps via postsynaptic changes at cortico-motoneuronal synapses. We assessed whether limb motoneurone output in response to reflex and descending synaptic activation is facilitated after one session of AIH in healthy able-bodied volunteers. Fourteen participants completed two experimental days, either AIH or a sham intervention (randomised crossover design). We measured H-reflex recruitment curves and homosynaptic post-activation depression (HPAD) of the H reflex in soleus, and motor evoked potentials (MEPs) evoked by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and their recruitment curves, in first dorsal interosseous. All measurements were performed at rest and occurred at baseline, 0, 20, 40, and 60 minutes post-intervention. The intervention was 30 minutes of either normoxia (sham, FiO2 ≈ 0.21) or AIH (alternate 1-minute hypoxia [FiO2 ≈ 0.09], 1-minute normoxia). After AIH the H-reflex recruitment curve shifted leftward. Lower stimulation intensities were needed to evoke 5%, 50%, and 99% of the maximal H reflex at 40 and 60 minutes after AIH (P<0.04). The maximal H reflex, recruitment slope and HPAD, were unchanged after AIH. MEPs evoked by constant intensity TMS were larger 40 minutes after AIH (P = 0.027). There was no change in MEP recruitment or the maximal MEP. In conclusion, some measures of the evoked responses from limb motoneurones increased after a single AIH session, but only at discrete time points. It is unclear to what extent these changes alter functional performance. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harrison T Finn
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, 2031, Australia.,University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Oliver Bogdanovski
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, 2031, Australia.,University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Anna L Hudson
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, 2031, Australia.,University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.,College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, 5042, Australia
| | - Euan J McCaughey
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, 2031, Australia.,University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | | | - Janet L Taylor
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, 2031, Australia.,Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA, 6027, Australia
| | - Jane E Butler
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, 2031, Australia.,University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Simon C Gandevia
- Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, NSW, 2031, Australia.,University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
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27
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Vose AK, Welch JF, Nair J, Dale EA, Fox EJ, Muir GD, Trumbower RD, Mitchell GS. Therapeutic acute intermittent hypoxia: A translational roadmap for spinal cord injury and neuromuscular disease. Exp Neurol 2022; 347:113891. [PMID: 34637802 PMCID: PMC8820239 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2021.113891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
We review progress towards greater mechanistic understanding and clinical translation of a strategy to improve respiratory and non-respiratory motor function in people with neuromuscular disorders, therapeutic acute intermittent hypoxia (tAIH). In 2016 and 2020, workshops to create and update a "road map to clinical translation" were held to help guide future research and development of tAIH to restore movement in people living with chronic, incomplete spinal cord injuries. After briefly discussing the pioneering, non-targeted basic research inspiring this novel therapeutic approach, we then summarize workshop recommendations, emphasizing critical knowledge gaps, priorities for future research effort, and steps needed to accelerate progress as we evaluate the potential of tAIH for routine clinical use. Highlighted areas include: 1) greater mechanistic understanding, particularly in non-respiratory motor systems; 2) optimization of tAIH protocols to maximize benefits; 3) identification of combinatorial treatments that amplify plasticity or remove plasticity constraints, including task-specific training; 4) identification of biomarkers for individuals most/least likely to benefit from tAIH; 5) assessment of long-term tAIH safety; and 6) development of a simple, safe and effective device to administer tAIH in clinical and home settings. Finally, we update ongoing clinical trials and recent investigations of tAIH in SCI and other clinical disorders that compromise motor function, including ALS, multiple sclerosis, and stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia K Vose
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, Department of Physical Therapy and McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; Brooks Rehabilitation, Jacksonville, FL 32216, USA
| | - Joseph F Welch
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, Department of Physical Therapy and McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; Brooks Rehabilitation, Jacksonville, FL 32216, USA
| | - Jayakrishnan Nair
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, Department of Physical Therapy and McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Erica A Dale
- Department of Physiology and Functional Genomics, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Emily J Fox
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, Department of Physical Therapy and McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; Brooks Rehabilitation, Jacksonville, FL 32216, USA
| | - Gillian D Muir
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, WCVM, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Randy D Trumbower
- Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gordon S Mitchell
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, Department of Physical Therapy and McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
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28
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Sandhu MS, Rymer WZ. Brief exposure to systemic hypoxia enhances plasticity of the central nervous system in spinal cord injured animals and man. Curr Opin Neurol 2021; 34:819-824. [PMID: 34545014 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000000990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We have known for many decades that animals that sustain injuries to the neuraxis, which result in respiratory impairment, are able to develop rapid neural compensation for these injuries. This compensation, which is linked to the systemic hypoxia resulting from damage to the respiratory apparatus, is a potent manifestation of neural plasticity. Hypoxia-induced plasticity is also applicable to somatic neural systems that regulate motor activity in extremity muscles. We report on recent developments in our understanding of the mechanisms underlying this seemingly beneficial action of acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH). RECENT FINDINGS AIH improves breathing in animal models of spinal cord injury, and increases strength and endurance in individuals with incomplete spinal injuries. The role of AIH as a therapeutic intervention remains to be confirmed but it has proved to be well tolerated for use in humans with no adverse effects reported to date. The effects of AIH emerge rapidly and persist for several hours raising the possibility that the intervention may serve as a priming mechanism for facilitating rehabilitation and promoting recovery after neurologic injury in man. SUMMARY AIH is emerging as a potent and relatively inexpensive modality for inducing neuroplasticity, so it may prove feasible to use AIH in a clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milap S Sandhu
- Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - William Z Rymer
- Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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29
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Li G, Liu J, Guan Y, Ji X. The role of hypoxia in stem cell regulation of the central nervous system: From embryonic development to adult proliferation. CNS Neurosci Ther 2021; 27:1446-1457. [PMID: 34817133 PMCID: PMC8611781 DOI: 10.1111/cns.13754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia is involved in the regulation of various cell functions in the body, including the regulation of stem cells. The hypoxic microenvironment is indispensable from embryonic development to the regeneration and repair of adult cells. In addition to embryonic stem cells, which need to maintain their self-renewal properties and pluripotency in a hypoxic environment, adult stem cells, including neural stem cells (NSCs), also exist in a hypoxic microenvironment. The subventricular zone (SVZ) and hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) are the main sites of adult neurogenesis in the brain. Hypoxia can promote the proliferation, migration, and maturation of NSCs in these regions. Also, because most neurons in the brain are non-regenerative, stem cell transplantation is considered as a promising strategy for treating central nervous system (CNS) diseases. Hypoxic treatment also increases the effectiveness of stem cell therapy. In this review, we firstly describe the role of hypoxia in different stem cells, such as embryonic stem cells, NSCs, and induced pluripotent stem cells, and discuss the role of hypoxia-treated stem cells in CNS diseases treatment. Furthermore, we highlight the role and mechanisms of hypoxia in regulating adult neurogenesis in the SVZ and DG and adult proliferation of other cells in the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaifen Li
- Laboratory of Brain DisordersMinistry of Science and TechnologyCollaborative Innovation Center for Brain DisordersBeijing Institute of Brain DisordersCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
- Department of NeurosurgeryXuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Jia Liu
- Laboratory of Brain DisordersMinistry of Science and TechnologyCollaborative Innovation Center for Brain DisordersBeijing Institute of Brain DisordersCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Yuying Guan
- Laboratory of Brain DisordersMinistry of Science and TechnologyCollaborative Innovation Center for Brain DisordersBeijing Institute of Brain DisordersCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
- Department of NeurosurgeryXuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Xunming Ji
- Laboratory of Brain DisordersMinistry of Science and TechnologyCollaborative Innovation Center for Brain DisordersBeijing Institute of Brain DisordersCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
- Department of NeurosurgeryXuanwu HospitalCapital Medical UniversityBeijingChina
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Intensity dependency of peripheral nerve stimulation in spinal LTP induced by paired associative corticospinal-motoneuronal stimulation (PCMS). PLoS One 2021; 16:e0259931. [PMID: 34793533 PMCID: PMC8601434 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Paired associative corticospinal-motoneuronal stimulation (PCMS) induces plasticity at synapses between corticospinal tracts (CSTs) and spinal motoneurons (SMs). We investigated the effects of peripheral nerve electrical stimulation (PNS) intensity on PCMS-induced plasticity. PCMS consisted of 180 paired stimuli of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) over the left primary motor cortex with PNS on the right ulnar nerve at the wrist. We compared effects induced by different PNS intensities: supramaximal, twice and three times sensory threshold intensities. For evaluating efficacy of the synapse between CSTs and SMs, single-pulse TMS was delivered at cervicomedullary junction level, and cervicomedullary motor-evoked potentials (CMEPs) were recorded from the right first-dorsal interosseous muscle before and after PCMS. PCMS with the supramaximal PNS intensity increased CMEP amplitude. The facilitatory effect of PCMS with the supramaximal PNS was larger than those of PCMS with weaker PNS intensities. Sham TMS with the supramaximal PNS showed no CMEP changes after the intervention. PNS intensity of PCMS influences the magnitude of synaptic plasticity induction between the CSTs and SMs at the spinal level, and the supramaximal intensity is the best for induction of long-term potentiation-like effects. The PNS intensity may influence the number of activated SMs by axonal backpropagating pulses with PNS which must overlap with descending volleys induced by TMS.
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31
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Development of a Spinal Cord Injury Model Permissive to Study the Cardiovascular Effects of Rehabilitation Approaches Designed to Induce Neuroplasticity. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10101006. [PMID: 34681105 PMCID: PMC8533334 DOI: 10.3390/biology10101006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary People living with high-level spinal cord injury experience worse cardiovascular health than the general population. In most spinal cord injuries, there are some remaining functioning pathways leading from the brain through the spinal cord to the organs and muscles, but not enough to sustain normal levels of function. Recently, therapies that aim to increase the strength of connections in these remaining pathways have shown great potential in restoring walking, hand, and breathing function in the spinal cord injured population. In order to test these therapies for their effects on cardiovascular function, we developed a new type of spinal cord injury rat model that spares enough pathways for these therapies to act upon but still produces measurable reductions in heart and blood vessel function that can be targeted with interventions/treatments. Abstract As primary medical care for spinal cord injury (SCI) has improved over the last decades there are more individuals living with neurologically incomplete (vs. complete) cervical injuries. For these individuals, a number of promising therapies are being actively researched in pre-clinical settings that seek to strengthen the remaining spinal pathways with a view to improve motor function. To date, few, if any, of these interventions have been tested for their effectiveness to improve autonomic and cardiovascular (CV) function. As a first step to testing such therapies, we aimed to develop a model that has sufficient sparing of descending sympathetic pathways for these interventions to target yet induces robust CV impairment. Twenty-six Wistar rats were assigned to SCI (n = 13) or naïve (n = 13) groups. Animals were injured at the T3 spinal segment with 300 kdyn of force. Fourteen days post-SCI, left ventricular (LV) and arterial catheterization was performed to assess in vivo cardiac and hemodynamic function. Spinal cord lesion characteristics along with sparing in catecholaminergic and serotonergic projections were determined via immunohistochemistry. SCI produced a decrease in mean arterial pressure of 17 ± 3 mmHg (p < 0.001) and left ventricular contractility (end-systolic elastance) of 0.7 ± 0.1 mmHg/µL (p < 0.001). Our novel SCI model produced significant decreases in cardiac and hemodynamic function while preserving 33 ± 9% of white matter at the injury epicenter, which we believe makes it a useful pre-clinical model of SCI to study rehabilitation approaches designed to induce neuroplasticity.
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Cash RFH, Udupa K, Gunraj CA, Mazzella F, Daskalakis ZJ, Wong AHC, Kennedy JL, Chen R. Influence of BDNF Val66Met polymorphism on excitatory-inhibitory balance and plasticity in human motor cortex. Clin Neurophysiol 2021; 132:2827-2839. [PMID: 34592560 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2021.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE While previous studies showed that the single nucleotide polymorphism (Val66Met) of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) can impact neuroplasticity, the influence of BDNF genotype on cortical circuitry and relationship to neuroplasticity remain relatively unexplored in human. METHODS Using individualised transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) parameters, we explored the influence of the BDNF Val66Met polymorphism on excitatory and inhibitory neural circuitry, its relation to I-wave TMS (ITMS) plasticity and effect on the excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) balance in 18 healthy individuals. RESULTS Excitatory and inhibitory indexes of neurotransmission were reduced in Met allele carriers. An E/I balance was evident, which was influenced by BDNF with higher E/I ratios in Val/Val homozygotes. Both long-term potentiation (LTP-) and depression (LTD-) like ITMS plasticity were greater in Val/Val homozygotes. LTP- but not LTD-like effects were restored in Met allele carriers by increasing stimulus intensity to compensate for reduced excitatory transmission. CONCLUSIONS The influence of BDNF genotype may extend beyond neuroplasticity to neurotransmission. The E/I balance was evident in human motor cortex, modulated by BDNF and measurable using TMS. Given the limited sample, these preliminary findings warrant further investigation. SIGNIFICANCE These novel findings suggest a broader role of BDNF genotype on neurocircuitry in human motor cortex.
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Affiliation(s)
- R F H Cash
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto and Krembil Brain Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Melbourne Neuropsychiatry Centre, The University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia; Department of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia.
| | - K Udupa
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto and Krembil Brain Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Dept of Neurophysiology, NIMHANS, Bengaluru, India
| | - C A Gunraj
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto and Krembil Brain Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - F Mazzella
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto and Krembil Brain Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Z J Daskalakis
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, and Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Psychiatry, UC San Diego Health, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - A H C Wong
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, and Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - J L Kennedy
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, and Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - R Chen
- Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Toronto and Krembil Brain Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Panza GS, Sutor T, Gee CM, Graco M, McCully KK, Chiodo A, Badr MS, Nash MS. Is Sleep Disordered Breathing Confounding Rehabilitation Outcomes in Spinal Cord Injury Research? Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2021; 103:1034-1045. [PMID: 34537222 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2021.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this article is to highlight the importance of considering sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) as a potential confounder to rehabilitation research interventions in spinal cord injury (SCI). SDB is highly prevalent in SCI, with increased prevalence in individuals with higher and more severe lesions, and the criterion standard treatment with continuous positive airway pressure remains problematic. Despite its high prevalence, SDB is often untested and untreated in individuals with SCI. In individuals without SCI, SDB is known to negatively affect physical function and many of the physiological systems that negatively affect physical rehabilitation in SCI. Thus, owing to the high prevalence, under testing, low treatment adherence, and known negative effect on the physical function, it is contended that underdiagnosed SDB in SCI may be confounding physical rehabilitation research studies in individuals with SCI. Studies investigating the effect of treating SDB and its effect on physical rehabilitation in SCI were unable to be located. Thus, studies investigating the likely integrated relationship among physical rehabilitation, SDB, and proper treatment of SDB in SCI are needed. Owing to rapid growth in both sleep medicine and physical rehabilitation intervention research in SCI, the authors contend it is the appropriate time to begin the conversations and collaborations between these fields. We discuss a general overview of SDB and physical training modalities, as well as how SDB could be affecting these studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gino S Panza
- John D. Dingell Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Detroit, MI; Department of Physiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI.
| | - Tommy Sutor
- Research Service, Hunter Holmes McGuire Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Richmond, VA
| | - Cameron M Gee
- International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Marnie Graco
- Institute for Breathing and Sleep, Austin Health; and School of Physiotherapy, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Anthony Chiodo
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - M Safwan Badr
- John D. Dingell Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Detroit, MI; Department of Internal Medicine, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
| | - Mark S Nash
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Physical Medicine & Rehabiliation, and Physical Therapy, Miami, FL; The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL
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Hatano K, Matsuura R, Ohtsuka Y, Yunoki T. Enhancement of self-sustained muscle activity through external dead space ventilation appears to be associated with hypercapnia. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2021; 295:103777. [PMID: 34425262 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2021.103777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 07/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
We reported that external dead space ventilation (EDSV) enhanced self-sustained muscle activity (SSMA) of the human soleus muscle, which is an indirect observation of plateau potentials. However, the main factor for EDSV to enhance SSMA remains unclear. The purpose of the present study was to examine the effects of EDSV-induced hypercapnia, hypoxia, and hyperventilation on SSMA. In Experiment 1 (n = 11; normal breathing [NB], EDSV, hypoxia, and voluntary hyperventilation conditions) and Experiment 2 (n = 9; NB and normoxic hypercapnia [NH] conditions), SSMA was evoked by electrical train stimulations of the right tibial nerve and measured using surface electromyography under each respiratory condition. In Experiment 1, SSMA was significantly higher than that in the NB condition only in the EDSV condition (P < 0.05). In Experiment 2, SSMA was higher in the NH condition than in the NB condition (P < 0.05). These results suggest that the EDSV-enhanced SSMA is due to hypercapnia, not hypoxia or increased ventilation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kei Hatano
- Graduate School of Education, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.
| | - Ryouta Matsuura
- Graduate School of Education, Joetsu University of Education, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Ohtsuka
- Department of Sports and Human Studies, Sapporo International University, Japan
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How Are Adenosine and Adenosine A 2A Receptors Involved in the Pathophysiology of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis? Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9081027. [PMID: 34440231 PMCID: PMC8392384 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9081027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Adenosine is extensively distributed in the central and peripheral nervous systems, where it plays a key role as a neuromodulator. It has long been implicated in the pathogenesis of progressive neurogenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, and there is now growing interest in its role in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The motor neurons affected in ALS are responsive to adenosine receptor function, and there is accumulating evidence for beneficial effects of adenosine A2A receptor antagonism. In this article, we focus on recent evidence from ALS clinical pathology and animal models that support dynamism of the adenosinergic system (including changes in adenosine levels and receptor changes) in ALS. We review the possible mechanisms of chronic neurodegeneration via the adenosinergic system, potential biomarkers and the acute symptomatic pharmacology, including respiratory motor neuron control, of A2A receptor antagonism to explore the potential of the A2A receptor as target for ALS therapy.
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36
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High frequency repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation promotes long lasting phrenic motoneuron excitability via GABAergic networks. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2021; 292:103704. [PMID: 34058433 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2021.103704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a promising, innovative, and non-invasive therapy used clinically. Efficacy of rTMS has been demonstrated to ameliorate psychiatric disorders and neuropathic pain through neuromodulation of affected neural circuits. However, little is known about the mechanisms and the specific neural circuits via which rTMS facilitates these functional effects. The aim of this study was to begin revealing the mechanisms by which rTMS may tap into existing neural circuits, by using a well characterized spinal motor circuit - the phrenic circuit. Here we hypothesized that rTMS can be used to enhance phrenic motoneuron excitability in anesthetized Sprague Dawley rats. Multiple acute rTMS protocols were used revealing 10 Hz rTMS protocol induced a robust, long-lasting increase in phrenic motoneuron excitability, functionally evaluated by diaphragm motor evoked potentials (59.1 ± 21.1 % of increase compared to baseline 60 min after 10 Hz protocol against 6.0 ± 5.8 % (p = 0.007) for Time Control, -5.8 ± 7.4 % (p < 0.001) for 3 Hz, and 5.2 ± 12.5 % (p = 0.008) for 30 Hz protocols). A deeper analyze allowed to discriminate "responder" and "non-responder" subgroups among 10 Hz rTMS treated animals. Intravenous injections of GABAA and GABAB receptor agonists prior to 10 Hz rTMS treatment, abolished the enhanced phrenic motoneuron excitability, suggesting GABAergic input plays a mechanistic role in rTMS-induced phrenic excitability. These data demonstrate that a single high frequency rTMS protocol at 10 Hz increases phrenic motoneuron excitability, mediated by a local GABAergic "disinhibition". By understanding how rTMS can be used to affect neural circuits non-invasively we can begin to harness the therapeutic potential of this neuromodulatory strategy to promote recovery after disease or injury to the central nervous system.
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Urbin MA, Collinger JL, Wittenberg GF. Corticospinal recruitment of spinal motor neurons in human stroke survivors. J Physiol 2021; 599:4357-4373. [PMID: 34021605 DOI: 10.1113/jp281311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Muscle weakness after stroke results from damage to corticospinal fibres that structurally and functionally connect cerebral cortex to the spinal cord. Here, we show an asymmetry in corticospinal recruitment of spinal motor neurons that is linked to maximal voluntary output of hand muscles weakened by stroke. Spike timing-dependent plasticity of synapses between corticospinal and spinal motor neurons transiently reversed recruitment failures in some survivors. These modulatory effects were strongly associated with recruitment asymmetry and hand impairment. Our findings highlight the functional relevance of spinal motor neuron recruitment by corticospinal inputs and the viability of corticospinal motor neuronal synapses for restoring activation of lower motor neurons after stroke. ABSTRACT Corticospinal input to spinal motor neurons is structurally and functionally altered by hemiparetic stroke. The pattern and extent to which corticospinal recruitment of spinal motor neurons is reorganized and whether such changes are linked to the severity of motor impairments is not well understood. Here, we performed experiments using the triple stimulation technique to quantify corticospinal recruitment of spinal motor neurons serving paretic and non-paretic intrinsic hand muscles of humans with longstanding motor impairment secondary to stroke (n = 13). We also examined whether recruitment failures could be transiently reversed by strengthening corticospinal-motoneuronal synaptic connectivity via targeted, temporally controlled non-invasive stimulation to elicit spike timing-dependent plasticity (STDP). Asymmetries were detected in corticospinal recruitment of spinal motor neurons, central conduction time and motor-evoked potential (MEP) latency. However, only recruitment asymmetry correlated with maximal voluntary motor output from the paretic hand. STDP-like effects were observed as an increase in spinal motor neuron recruitment. Control experiments to isolate the locus of plasticity demonstrated a modulation in MEPs elicited by electrical stimulation of primary motor cortex but not F-wave size or persistence, suggesting that plasticity was mediated through enhanced efficacy of residual corticospinal-motor neuronal synapses. The modulation in recruitment was strongly associated with baseline recruitment asymmetry and impairment severity. Our findings demonstrate that asymmetry in corticospinal recruitment of spinal motor neurons is directly related to impairments experienced by stroke survivors. These recruitment deficits may be partially and transiently reversed by spike timing-dependent plasticity of synapses between upper and lower motor neurons in the spinal cord, downstream of supraspinal circuits damaged by stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Urbin
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, VA RR&D Center of Excellence, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Rehabilitation Neural Engineering Laboratories, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jennifer L Collinger
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, VA RR&D Center of Excellence, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Rehabilitation Neural Engineering Laboratories, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - George F Wittenberg
- Human Engineering Research Laboratories, VA RR&D Center of Excellence, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Rehabilitation Neural Engineering Laboratories, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Gonzalez-Rothi EJ, Lee KZ. Intermittent hypoxia and respiratory recovery in pre-clinical rodent models of incomplete cervical spinal cord injury. Exp Neurol 2021; 342:113751. [PMID: 33974878 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2021.113751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Impaired respiratory function is a common and devastating consequence of cervical spinal cord injury. Accordingly, the development of safe and effective treatments to restore breathing function is critical. Acute intermittent hypoxia has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy to treat respiratory insufficiency in individuals with spinal cord injury. Since the original report by Bach and Mitchell (1996) concerning long-term facilitation of phrenic motor output elicited by brief, episodic exposure to reduced oxygen, a series of studies in animal models have led to the realization that acute intermittent hypoxia may have tremendous potential for inducing neuroplasticity and functional recovery in the injured spinal cord. Advances in our understanding of the neurobiology of acute intermittent hypoxia have prompted us to begin to explore its effects in human clinical studies. Here, we review the basic neurobiology of the control of breathing and the pathophysiology and respiratory consequences of two common experimental models of incomplete cervical spinal cord injury (i.e., high cervical hemisection and mid-cervical contusion). We then discuss the impact of acute intermittent hypoxia on respiratory motor function in these models: work that has laid the foundation for translation of this promising therapeutic strategy to clinical populations. Lastly, we examine the limitations of these animal models and intermittent hypoxia and discuss how future work in animal models may further advance the translation and therapeutic efficacy of this treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa J Gonzalez-Rothi
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Center, Department of Physical Therapy and McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Kun-Ze Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Department of Biomedical Science and Environmental Biology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
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Welch JF, Perim RR, Argento PJ, Sutor TW, Vose AK, Nair J, Mitchell GS, Fox EJ. Effect of acute intermittent hypoxia on cortico-diaphragmatic conduction in healthy humans. Exp Neurol 2021; 339:113651. [PMID: 33607080 PMCID: PMC8678369 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2021.113651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH) is a strategy to improve motor output in humans with neuromotor impairment. A single AIH session increases the amplitude of motor evoked potentials (MEP) in a finger muscle (first dorsal interosseous), demonstrating enhanced corticospinal neurotransmission. Since AIH elicits phrenic/diaphragm long-term facilitation (LTF) in rodent models, we tested the hypothesis that AIH augments diaphragm MEPs in humans. Eleven healthy adults (7 males, age = 29 ± 6 years) were tested. Transcranial and cervical magnetic stimulation were used to induce diaphragm MEPs and compound muscle action potentials (CMAP) recorded by surface EMG, respectively. Stimulus-response curves were generated prior to and 30-60 min after AIH. Diaphragm LTF was assessed by measurement of integrated EMG burst amplitude and frequency during eupnoeic breathing before and after AIH. Following baseline measurements, AIH was delivered from an oxygen generator connected to a facemask under poikilocapnic conditions (15 one minute episodes of 9% inspired oxygen with one minute room air intervals). There were no detectable changes in MEP (-1.5 ± 12.1%, p = 0.96) or CMAP (+0.1 ± 7.8%, p = 0.97) amplitudes across the stimulus-response curve. At stimulation intensities approximating 50% of the difference between minimum and maximum baseline amplitudes, MEP and CMAP amplitudes were also unchanged (p > 0.05). Further, no AIH effect was observed on diaphragm EMG activity during eupnoea post-AIH (p > 0.05). We conclude that unlike hand muscles, poikilocapnic AIH does not enhance diaphragm MEPs or produce diaphragm LTF in healthy humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph F Welch
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Centre, Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Raphael R Perim
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Centre, Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Patrick J Argento
- Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Tommy W Sutor
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Centre, Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Alicia K Vose
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Centre, Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Jayakrishnan Nair
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Centre, Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Gordon S Mitchell
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Centre, Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Emily J Fox
- Breathing Research and Therapeutics Centre, Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA; Brooks Rehabilitation, Jacksonville, FL, USA
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40
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Debenham MIB, Smuin JN, Grantham TDA, Ainslie PN, Dalton BH. Hypoxia and standing balance. Eur J Appl Physiol 2021; 121:993-1008. [PMID: 33484334 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-020-04581-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Standing balance control is important for everyday function and often goes unnoticed until impairments appear. Presently, more than 200 million people live at altitudes > 2500 m above sea level, and many others work at or travel to these elevations. Thus, it is important to understand how hypoxia alters balance owing to implications for occupations and travelers. Herein, the influence of normobaric and hypobaric hypoxia on standing balance control is reviewed and summarized. As postural control relies on the integration of sensorimotor signals, the potential hypoxic-sensitive neurophysiological factors that contribute to balance impairments are also reviewed. Specifically, we examine how hypoxia impairs visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive cues, and their integration within subcortical or cortical areas. METHODS This systematic review included a literature search conducted via multiple databases with keywords related to postural balance, hypoxia, and altitude. Articles (n = 13) were included if they met distinct criteria. RESULTS Compared to normoxia, normobaric hypoxia worsened parameters of standing balance by 2-10% and up to 83 and 240% in hypobaric hypoxia (high-altitude and lab-based, respectively). Although balance was only disrupted during normobaric hypoxia at FIO2 < ~ 0.15, impairments consistently occurred during hypobaric hypoxia at altitudes > 1524 m (~ FIO2 < 0.18). CONCLUSION Hypoxia, especially hypobaric, impairs standing balance. The mechanisms underpinning postural decrements likely involve alterations to processing and integration of sensorimotor signals within subcortical or cortical structures involving visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive pathways and subsequent motor commands that direct postural adjustments. Future studies are required to determine the sensorimotor factors that may influence balance control in hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathew I B Debenham
- School of Health and Exercise Sciences, Faculty of Health and Social Development, University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, Canada
| | - Janelle N Smuin
- School of Health and Exercise Sciences, Faculty of Health and Social Development, University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, Canada
| | - Tess D A Grantham
- School of Health and Exercise Sciences, Faculty of Health and Social Development, University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, Canada
| | - Philip N Ainslie
- School of Health and Exercise Sciences, Faculty of Health and Social Development, University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, Canada
| | - Brian H Dalton
- School of Health and Exercise Sciences, Faculty of Health and Social Development, University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, Canada.
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Fok KL, Kaneko N, Sasaki A, Nakagawa K, Nakazawa K, Masani K. Motor Point Stimulation in Spinal Paired Associative Stimulation can Facilitate Spinal Cord Excitability. Front Hum Neurosci 2020; 14:593806. [PMID: 33328940 PMCID: PMC7729006 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2020.593806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Paired associative stimulation at the spinal cord (spinal PAS) has been shown to increase muscle force and dexterity by strengthening the corticomuscular connection, through spike timing dependent plasticity. Typically, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and transcutaneous peripheral nerve electrical stimulation (PNS) are often used in spinal PAS. PNS targets superficial nerve branches, by which the number of applicable muscles is limited. Alternatively, a muscle can be activated by positioning the stimulation electrode on the “motor point” (MPS), which is the most sensitive location of a muscle to electrical stimulation. Although this can increase the number of applicable muscles for spinal PAS, nobody has tested whether MPS can be used for the spinal PAS to date. Here we investigated the feasibility of using MPS instead of PNS for spinal PAS. Ten healthy male individuals (26.0 ± 3.5 yrs) received spinal PAS on two separate days with different stimulation timings expected to induce (1) facilitation of corticospinal excitability (REAL) or (2) no effect (CONTROL) on the soleus. The motor evoked potentials (MEP) response curve in the soleus was measured prior to the spinal PAS, immediately after (0 min) and at 10, 20, 30 min post-intervention as a measure of corticospinal excitability. The post-intervention MEP response curve areas were larger in the REAL condition than the CONTROL conditions. Further, the post-intervention MEP response curve areas were significantly larger than pre-intervention in the REAL condition but not in the CONTROL condition. We conclude that MPS can facilitate corticospinal excitability through spinal PAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Lon Fok
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Kite Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Naotsugu Kaneko
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Kite Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsushi Sasaki
- Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kento Nakagawa
- Kite Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan.,Faculty of Sport Sciences, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kimitaka Nakazawa
- Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kei Masani
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Kite Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
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42
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Tan AQ, Papadopoulos JM, Corsten AN, Trumbower RD. An automated pressure-swing absorption system to administer low oxygen therapy for persons with spinal cord injury. Exp Neurol 2020; 333:113408. [PMID: 32682613 PMCID: PMC7502479 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2020.113408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Mild episodes of breathing low oxygen (O2) (i.e., acute intermittent hypoxia, AIH) elicits rapid mechanisms of neural plasticity that enhance respiratory and non-respiratory motor function after spinal cord injury (SCI). Despite promising outcomes in humans and rodents with SCI, the translational potential of AIH as a clinical therapy remains dependent on a safer and more reliable air delivery system. The purpose of this study is to investigate the performance of a novel AIH delivery system to overcome inconsistencies in human AIH protocols using a hand-operated (manual) delivery system. Specifically, we characterized system performance of AIH delivery in terms of flow rate, O2 concentration, dose timing, and air temperature. Our data show that a novel 'automated' delivery system: i) produces reliable AIH with a goodness-of-fit at 98.1% of 'ideal'; ii) eliminates dose timing errors via programmable solenoid switches; iii) reduces fluctuations in O2 to less than 0.01%; and iv) delivers 62.7% more air flow than the 'manual' delivery method. Automated physiological recordings, threshold detection, and visual feedback of the participant's blood O2 saturation, heart rate, and blood pressure ensures real-time user safety. In summary, the 'automated' system outperformed the 'manual' delivery method in terms of accuracy, reliability, and safety. The 'automated' system offers several design features that move the technology closer to a medically approved treatment for clinical and home use.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Q Tan
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, 1575 Cambridge Street, MA 02138, USA; Spaulding Research Institute, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, 1575 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA 02138, USA
| | - J M Papadopoulos
- Spaulding Research Institute, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, 1575 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA 02138, USA
| | - A N Corsten
- Spaulding Research Institute, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, 1575 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA 02138, USA
| | - R D Trumbower
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, 1575 Cambridge Street, MA 02138, USA; Spaulding Research Institute, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, 1575 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA 02138, USA.
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Christiansen L, Chen B, Lei Y, Urbin MA, Richardson MSA, Oudega M, Sandhu M, Rymer WZ, Trumbower RD, Mitchell GS, Perez MA. Acute intermittent hypoxia boosts spinal plasticity in humans with tetraplegia. Exp Neurol 2020; 335:113483. [PMID: 32987000 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2020.113483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2020] [Revised: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Paired corticospinal-motoneuronal stimulation (PCMS) elicits spinal synaptic plasticity in humans with chronic incomplete cervical spinal cord injury (SCI). Here, we examined whether PCMS-induced plasticity could be potentiated by acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH), a treatment also known to induce spinal synaptic plasticity in humans with chronic incomplete cervical SCI. During PCMS, we used 180 pairs of stimuli where corticospinal volleys evoked by transcranial magnetic stimulation over the hand representation of the primary motor cortex were timed to arrive at corticospinal-motoneuronal synapses of the first dorsal interosseous (FDI) muscle ~1-2 ms before the arrival of antidromic potentials elicited in motoneurons by electrical stimulation of the ulnar nerve. During AIH, participants were exposed to brief alternating episodes of hypoxic inspired gas (1 min episodes of 9% O2) and room air (1 min episodes of 20.9% O2). We examined corticospinal function by measuring motor evoked potentials (MEPs) elicited by cortical and subcortical stimulation of corticospinal axons and voluntary motor output in the FDI muscle before and after 30 min of PCMS combined with AIH (PCMS+AIH) or sham AIH (PCMS+sham-AIH). The amplitude of MEPs evoked by magnetic and electrical stimulation increased after both protocols, but most after PCMS+AIH, consistent with the hypothesis that their combined effects arise from spinal plasticity. Both protocols increased electromyographic activity in the FDI muscle to a similar extent. Thus, PCMS effects on spinal synapses of hand motoneurons can be potentiated by AIH. The possibility of different thresholds for physiological vs behavioral gains needs to be considered during combinatorial treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lasse Christiansen
- University of Miami, Department of Neurological Surgery, The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis and Miami VA Medical Center, Miami, FL, 33136, United States of America; Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital, Amager and Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Bing Chen
- University of Miami, Department of Neurological Surgery, The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis and Miami VA Medical Center, Miami, FL, 33136, United States of America; Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America
| | - Yuming Lei
- University of Miami, Department of Neurological Surgery, The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis and Miami VA Medical Center, Miami, FL, 33136, United States of America
| | - M A Urbin
- University of Miami, Department of Neurological Surgery, The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis and Miami VA Medical Center, Miami, FL, 33136, United States of America
| | | | - Martin Oudega
- University of Miami, Department of Neurological Surgery, The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis and Miami VA Medical Center, Miami, FL, 33136, United States of America; Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America; Edward Jr. Hines VA Hospital, Chicago, IL 60141, United States of America; Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Northwestern University, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America; Affiliated Cancer Hospital & Institute, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510095, PR China
| | - Milap Sandhu
- Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America
| | - W Zev Rymer
- Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America
| | - Randy D Trumbower
- Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Cambridge Street, Cambridge, MA 02138, United States of America; Harvard Medical School, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Boston, MA 02115, United States of America
| | - Gordon S Mitchell
- Center for Respiratory Research and Rehabilitation, Department of Physical Therapy and McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, United States of America
| | - Monica A Perez
- University of Miami, Department of Neurological Surgery, The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis and Miami VA Medical Center, Miami, FL, 33136, United States of America; Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America; Edward Jr. Hines VA Hospital, Chicago, IL 60141, United States of America; Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Northwestern University, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America.
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44
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Christiansen L, Larsen MN, Madsen MJ, Grey MJ, Nielsen JB, Lundbye-Jensen J. Long-term motor skill training with individually adjusted progressive difficulty enhances learning and promotes corticospinal plasticity. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15588. [PMID: 32973251 PMCID: PMC7518278 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-72139-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Motor skill acquisition depends on central nervous plasticity. However, behavioural determinants leading to long lasting corticospinal plasticity and motor expertise remain unexplored. Here we investigate behavioural and electrophysiological effects of individually tailored progressive practice during long-term motor skill training. Two groups of participants practiced a visuomotor task requiring precise control of the right digiti minimi for 6 weeks. One group trained with constant task difficulty, while the other group trained with progressively increasing task difficulty, i.e. continuously adjusted to their individual skill level. Compared to constant practice, progressive practice resulted in a two-fold greater performance at an advanced task level and associated increases in corticospinal excitability. Differences were maintained 8 days later, whereas both groups demonstrated equal retention 14 months later. We demonstrate that progressive practice enhances motor skill learning and promotes corticospinal plasticity. These findings underline the importance of continuously challenging patients and athletes to promote neural plasticity, skilled performance, and recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lasse Christiansen
- Department of Nutrition Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital, Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark.
| | - Malte Nejst Larsen
- Department of Nutrition Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Mads Just Madsen
- Department of Nutrition Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Danish Research Centre for Magnetic Resonance, Centre for Functional and Diagnostic Imaging and Research, Copenhagen University Hospital, Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Michael James Grey
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Jens Bo Nielsen
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jesper Lundbye-Jensen
- Department of Nutrition Exercise and Sports, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Neuroscience, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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McKeown DJ, McNeil CJ, Simmonds MJ, Kavanagh JJ. Time course of neuromuscular responses to acute hypoxia during voluntary contractions. Exp Physiol 2020; 105:1855-1868. [PMID: 32869906 DOI: 10.1113/ep088887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
NEW FINDINGS What is the central question of this study? How does acute hypoxia alter central and peripheral fatigue during brief and sustained maximal voluntary muscle contractions? What is the main finding and its importance? Perception of fatigue during muscle contractions was increased progressively for 2 h after hypoxic exposure. However, an increase in motor cortex excitability and a decrease in voluntary activation of skeletal muscle were observed across the entire protocol when performing brief (3 s) maximal contractions. These adaptations were abolished if the brief contraction was held for a duration of 20 s, which was presumably attributable to a successful redistribution of blood to overcome the reduced oxygen content. ABSTRACT Few studies have examined the time course of changes in the motor system after acute exposure to hypoxia. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine how acute hypoxia affects corticospinal excitability, voluntary activation (VA) and the perception of fatigue during brief (3 s) and sustained (20 s) maximal voluntary contractions (MVCs). Fourteen healthy individuals (23 ± 2.2 years of age; four female) were exposed to hypoxia and sham conditions. During hypoxia, peripheral blood oxygen saturation was titrated over a 15 min period and remained at 80% during testing. Corticospinal excitability and VA were assessed before titration (Pre), 0, 1 and 2 h after. At each time point, the brief and sustained elbow flexion MVCs were performed. Motor evoked potentials (MEPs) were obtained using transcranial magnetic stimulation. Superimposed and resting twitches were obtained from motor point stimulation of biceps brachii to calculate the level of VA, and ratings of perceived fatigue were obtained with a modified CR-10 Borg scale. A condition-by-time interaction was detected for the CR-10 Borg scale, whereby perception of fatigue increased progressively throughout the hypoxia protocol. However, main effects of MEP area and VA indicated that corticospinal excitability increased, and VA of the biceps brachii decreased, throughout the hypoxia protocol. Given that these changes in MEP area and VA were seen only when performing the brief MVCs (and not during the sustained MVCs), performing longer contractions might overcome reduced oxygen content by redirecting blood flow to active areas of the motor system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J McKeown
- Neural Control of Movement Laboratory, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Chris J McNeil
- Integrated Neuromuscular Physiology Laboratory, Centre for Heart, Lung, and Vascular Health, School of Health and Exercise Sciences, University of British Columbia, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Michael J Simmonds
- Biorheology Research Laboratory, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Justin J Kavanagh
- Neural Control of Movement Laboratory, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
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The Potential of Corticospinal-Motoneuronal Plasticity for Recovery after Spinal Cord Injury. CURRENT PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION REPORTS 2020; 8:293-298. [PMID: 33777502 DOI: 10.1007/s40141-020-00272-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of review This review focuses on a relatively new neuromodulation method where transcranial magnetic stimulation over the primary motor cortex is paired with transcutaneous electrical stimulation over a peripheral nerve to induce plasticity at corticospinal-motoneuronal synapses. Recent findings Recovery of sensorimotor function after spinal cord injury largely depends on transmission in the corticospinal pathway. Significantly damaged corticospinal axons fail to regenerate and participate in functional recovery. Transmission in residual corticospinal axons can be assessed using non-invasive transcranial magnetic stimulation which combined with transcutaneous electrical stimulation can be used to improve voluntary motor output, as was recently demonstrated in clinical studies in humans with chronic incomplete spinal cord injury. These two stimuli are applied at precise inter-stimulus intervals to reinforce corticospinal synaptic transmission using principles of spike-timing dependent plasticity. Summary We discuss the neural mechanisms and application of this neuromodulation technique and its potential therapeutic effect on recovery of function in humans with chronic spinal cord injury.
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Tan AQ, Barth S, Trumbower RD. Acute intermittent hypoxia as a potential adjuvant to improve walking following spinal cord injury: evidence, challenges, and future directions. CURRENT PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION REPORTS 2020; 8:188-198. [PMID: 33738145 DOI: 10.1007/s40141-020-00270-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review The reacquisition and preservation of walking ability are highly valued goals in spinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation. Recurrent episodes of breathing low oxygen (i.e., acute intermittent hypoxia, AIH) is a potential therapy to promote walking recovery after incomplete SCI via endogenous mechanisms of neuroplasticity. Here, we report on the progress of AIH, alone or paired with other treatments, on walking recovery in persons with incomplete SCI. We evaluate the evidence of AIH as a therapy ready for clinical and home use and the real and perceived challenges that may interfere with this possibility. Recent Findings Repetitive AIH is a safe and an efficacious treatment to enhance strength, walking speed and endurance, as well as, dynamic balance in persons with chronic, incomplete SCI. Summary The potential for AIH as a treatment for SCI remains high, but further research is necessary to understand treatment targets and effectiveness in a large cohort of persons with SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Quesada Tan
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA. USA
- Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Boston MA
| | - Stella Barth
- Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Boston MA
- Harvard University, Cambridge MA
| | - Randy D Trumbower
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA. USA
- Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Boston MA
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Beyeler SA, Hodges MR, Huxtable AG. Impact of inflammation on developing respiratory control networks: rhythm generation, chemoreception and plasticity. Respir Physiol Neurobiol 2020; 274:103357. [PMID: 31899353 DOI: 10.1016/j.resp.2019.103357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 11/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The respiratory control network in the central nervous system undergoes critical developmental events early in life to ensure adequate breathing at birth. There are at least three "critical windows" in development of respiratory control networks: 1) in utero, 2) newborn (postnatal day 0-4 in rodents), and 3) neonatal (P10-13 in rodents, 2-4 months in humans). During these critical windows, developmental processes required for normal maturation of the respiratory control network occur, thereby increasing vulnerability of the network to insults, such as inflammation. Early life inflammation (induced by LPS, chronic intermittent hypoxia, sustained hypoxia, or neonatal maternal separation) acutely impairs respiratory rhythm generation, chemoreception and increases neonatal risk of mortality. These early life impairments are also greater in young males, suggesting sex-specific impairments in respiratory control. Further, neonatal inflammation has a lasting impact on respiratory control by impairing adult respiratory plasticity. This review focuses on how inflammation alters respiratory rhythm generation, chemoreception and plasticity during each of the three critical windows. We also highlight the need for additional mechanistic studies and increased investigation into how glia (such as microglia and astrocytes) play a role in impaired respiratory control after inflammation. Understanding how inflammation during critical windows of development disrupt respiratory control networks is essential for developing better treatments for vulnerable neonates and preventing adult ventilatory control disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Beyeler
- Department of Human Physiology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, United States
| | - Matthew R Hodges
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States
| | - Adrianne G Huxtable
- Department of Human Physiology, University of Oregon, Eugene, OR, 97403, United States.
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Sandhu MS, Gray E, Kocherginsky M, Jayaraman A, Mitchell GS, Rymer WZ. Prednisolone Pretreatment Enhances Intermittent Hypoxia-Induced Plasticity in Persons With Chronic Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury. Neurorehabil Neural Repair 2019; 33:911-921. [PMID: 31524075 DOI: 10.1177/1545968319872992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Objective. To test the hypothesis that an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid drug enhances spinal motor plasticity induced by acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH) in persons with chronic incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI). Methods. Fourteen subjects with incomplete spinal cord injury (ASIA level C or D; mean age = 46 years) participated in a randomized, double-blinded, crossover, and placebo-controlled study. Subjects received either 60 mg oral prednisolone or a matching placebo, 1 hour before administration of AIH (15, 60-second hypoxic exposures; fraction of inspired oxygen [FiO2] = 0.09). Changes in voluntary ankle strength, lower extremity electromyograms (EMG), and serum inflammatory biomarkers were quantified. Results. Maximal ankle plantarflexion torque was significantly higher following prednisolone + AIH versus placebo + AIH (mean difference [MD] 9, 11, and 7 newton meter [N∙m] at 30, 60, and 120 minutes post-AIH, respectively; all Ps <.02). Soleus surface EMG during maximal voluntary contraction was also significantly increased following prednisolone + AIH (MD 3.5, P = .02 vs placebo + AIH), while activity of other leg muscles remained unchanged. Individuals had significantly higher levels of the anti-inflammatory serum biomarker interleukin-10 after prednisolone versus placebo (P = .004 vs placebo + AIH). Conclusions. Pretreatment with prednisolone increased the capacity for AIH-induced functional motor plasticity, suggesting that suppression of inflammation enhances the efficacy of AIH administration in individuals with spinal cord injury. Clinical trial registration number: NCT03752749.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milap S Sandhu
- Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL, USA.,Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | | | - Arun Jayaraman
- Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL, USA.,Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Gordon S Mitchell
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - William Z Rymer
- Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Chicago, IL, USA.,Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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McKeown DJ, Simmonds MJ, Kavanagh JJ. Reduced blood oxygen levels induce changes in low-threshold motor unit firing that align with the individual’s tolerance to hypoxia. J Neurophysiol 2019; 121:1664-1671. [DOI: 10.1152/jn.00071.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to quantify how acute hypoxia impacts firing characteristics of biceps brachii motor units (MUs) during sustained isometric elbow flexions. MU data were extracted from surface electromyography (EMG) during 25% maximal voluntary contractions (MVC) in 10 healthy subjects (age 22 ± 1 yr). Blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) was then stabilized at 80% by reducing 1% of the fraction of inspired oxygen every 3 min for 35 min. MU data were once again collected 1 h and 2 h following the 35-min desaturation phase. Although MVC remained unaffected during 2 h of 80% SpO2, subject-specific changes in MU firing rate were observed. Four of 10 subjects exhibited a decrease in firing rate 1 h postdesaturation (12 ± 11%) and 2 h postdesaturation (16 ± 12%), whereas 6 of 10 subjects exhibited an increase in firing rate 1 h (9 ± 6%) and 2 h (9 ± 4%) postdesaturation. These bidirectional changes in firing rate were strongly correlated to the desaturation phase and the subjects’ SpO2 sensitivity to oxygen availability, where subjects who had decreased firing rates reached the target SpO2 20 min into the desaturation phase ( R2 = 0.90–0.98) and those who had increased firing rates reached the target SpO2 35 min into the desaturation phase ( R2 = 0.87–0.98). It is unlikely that a single mechanism accounted for these subject-specific changes in firing rate. Instead, differences in intrinsic properties of the neurons, afferent input to the motoneurons, neuromodulators, and sympathetic nerve activity may exist between groups. NEW & NOTEWORTHY The mechanisms of compromised motor control when exposed to hypoxia are largely unknown. The current study examined how severe acute hypoxia affects motor unit firing rate during sustained isometric contractions of the bicep brachii. The response to hypoxia was different across subjects, where motor unit firing rate increased for some individuals and decreased for others. This bidirectional change in firing rate was associated with how fast subjects desaturated during hypoxic exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J. McKeown
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michael J. Simmonds
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Queensland, Australia
| | - Justin J. Kavanagh
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Queensland, Australia
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