Mature spinal networks in rodents: electrophysiological investigations combined with optogenetic methods to define neuron and circuit function

哺乳动物运动所需的节律性模式运动输出可以完全由称为中央模式发生器（CPG）的专门脊髓（间）神经元回路产生。识别有助于CPG活动的中间神经元是理解启动持续模式化肢体运动所必需的脊髓神经元群体和通过感觉输入启动运动输出的脊髓神经元（即，反射环）与经由脊髓上下行输入启动运动的那些（即，自主循环），以及CPG神经元的互连如何导致有节奏的运动输出。

The rhythmic patterned motor output required for locomotion in mammals can be produced entirely by a specialized spinal (inter)neuronal circuit called the central pattern generator (CPG). Identification of interneurons that contribute to CPG activity is pivotal understanding spinal neuronal populations that are necessary to initiate sustained patterned limb movements and those spinal neurons that initiate motor output via sensory-input (i.e., reflex loops) vs. those that initiate locomotion via supraspinal descending input (i.e., voluntary loops), and how the interconnections of CPG neurons lead to rhythmic motor output.