Generation of locomotor-like activity using monopolar intraspinal electrical microstimulation in rats

This study explores using electrical stimulation to help rats with spinal cord injuries regain movement in their hind legs. The central pattern generator (CPG) in the spinal cord, which helps control movement, can be activated using a technique called intra-spinal micro-stimulation (ISMS). The researchers identified specific spots in the spinal cord that, when stimulated, could trigger stepping motions in the rats' hind legs. By changing the direction of the electrical pulse or stimulating different spots, they could control whether the leg flexed or extended. The paralyzed rats underwent four weeks of training where these specific spots were stimulated. Results showed significant improvement in their ability to move their hind legs, suggesting that this type of stimulation can help restore motor function after spinal cord injury.

• 1
  Two special sites were identified in the lumbosacral spinal cord of rats that, when stimulated with ISMS, could activate the CPG neural network to induce alternating patterns in the hindlimbs.
• 2
  Reversing the pulse polarity of the stimulus or changing the special site could reverse flexion and extension movements, suggesting a method to control stepping movements.
• 3
  Locomotor training with ISMS at the special sites promoted significant functional recovery of the bilateral hindlimbs in SCI rats.