Work

A Common Structure Underlies Low-Frequency Cortical Dynamics in Movement, Sleep, and Sedation

Year: 2014

Type: article

Abstract: Upper-limb movements are often composed of regular submovements, and neural correlates of submovement frequencies between 1 and 4 Hz have been found in the motor cortex. The temporal profile of movements is usually assumed to be determined by extrinsic factors such as limb biomechanics and feedback delays, but another possibility is that an intrinsic rhythmicity contributes to low frequencies in behavior. We used multielectrode recordings in monkeys performing an isometric movement task to reveal cyclic activity in primary motor cortex locked to submovements, and a distinct oscillation in premotor cortex. During ketamine sedation and natural sleep, cortical activity traversed similar cycles and became synchronized across areas. Because the same cortical dynamics are coupled to submovements and also observed in the absence of behavior, we conclude that the motor networks controlling the upper limb exhibit an intrinsic periodicity at submovement frequencies that is reflected in the speed profile of movements.

Source: Neuron

DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2014.07.022

Authors: Thomas M. Hall, Felipe de Carvalho, Andrew Jackson

Institution: Newcastle University

Language: English

Topic: Neural dynamics and brain function

Subfield: Cognitive Neuroscience

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,917

Funders: Wellcome Trust, Medical Research Council, Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council