Effects of acute spinalization on neurons of postural networks

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  • Pavel V Zelenin
  • Vladimir F Lyalka
  • Hsu, Li-Ju
  • Grigori N Orlovsky
  • Tatiana G Deliagina

Postural limb reflexes (PLRs) represent a substantial component of postural corrections. Spinalization results in loss of postural functions, including disappearance of PLRs. The aim of the present study was to characterize the effects of acute spinalization on two populations of spinal neurons (F and E) mediating PLRs, which we characterized previously. For this purpose, in decerebrate rabbits spinalized at T12, responses of interneurons from L5 to stimulation causing PLRs before spinalization, were recorded. The results were compared to control data obtained in our previous study. We found that spinalization affected the distribution of F- and E-neurons across the spinal grey matter, caused a significant decrease in their activity, as well as disturbances in processing of posture-related sensory inputs. A two-fold decrease in the proportion of F-neurons in the intermediate grey matter was observed. Location of populations of F- and E-neurons exhibiting significant decrease in their activity was determined. A dramatic decrease of the efficacy of sensory input from the ipsilateral limb to F-neurons, and from the contralateral limb to E-neurons was found. These changes in operation of postural networks underlie the loss of postural control after spinalization, and represent a starting point for the development of spasticity.

Original languageEnglish
Article number27372
JournalScientific Reports
Volume6
Number of pages13
ISSN2045-2322
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 15 Jun 2016
Externally publishedYes

    Research areas

  • Animals, Extremities/physiology, Gray Matter/physiology, Interneurons/physiology, Neurons/physiology, Postural Balance/physiology, Posture/physiology, Rabbits, Reflex/physiology, Spinal Cord/physiology, Spinal Cord Injuries/physiopathology

ID: 248187139