PSL300H1 Lecture Notes - Lecture 29: Cpg Site, Stretch Reflex, Reciprocal Inhibition
Document Summary
There is a hierarchical level of organization of how different groups of neurons (nuclei) control motor movement. Simple reflexes: sensory neurons make synapses with spinal cord motoneurons to mediate simple reflexes: this is the simplest form of motor control (walking, breathing) Central pattern generators (cpgs): networks of interneurons in the spinal cord and brainstem coordinate the interaction of many different motor groups (locomotion, respiration) Complex/volitional movement: motor output that is planned and refined by the motor cortex, basal ganglia and cerebellum (planned, voluntary movements) Reflexes can perform simple elements of movements, but not complex patterns. E. g. , stretch reflexes cannot restore postural stability after a perturbation (change in regular state) Posture and movement are programmed by cpgs functional networks of neurons. Cpgs are located principally in the spinal cord and the brain stem (but also found in other parts of the body) Cpgs activated in order of relevance (in order of if importance)
