Assessing sensory function in locomotor systems using neuro-mechanical simulations

• Published in: Trends in neurosciences (Regular ed.) 2006-11, Vol.29 (11), p.625-631
• Main Authors: Pearson, Keir, Ekeberg, Örjan, Büschges, Ansgar
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Animals; Biological and medical sciences; Biosensors; Computer Simulation; dynamical simulations; Electrodiagnosis. Electric activity recording; extensor activity; Feedback - physiology; Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology; hip position; human walking; insect walking; Investigative techniques, diagnostic techniques (general aspects); Locomotion - physiology; Mechanoreceptors - physiology; Medical sciences; Models, Biological; muscle coordination; Muscle, Skeletal - innervation; Muscle, Skeletal - physiology; Nervous system; Neurosciences; pattern generation; Petromyzontidae; Sensation - physiology; sensorimotor control; Sensory perception; Somesthesis and somesthetic pathways (proprioception, exteroception, nociception); interoception; electrolocation. Sensory receptors; Spinal Cord - physiology; stance phase; swing phase; Vertebrates: nervous system and sense organs
• ISSN: 0166-2236; 1878-108X; 1878-108X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2006.08.007

Computer simulations are being used increasingly to gain an understanding of the complex interactions between the neuronal, sensory, muscular and mechanical components of locomotor systems. Recent neuro-mechanical simulations of walking in humans, cats and insects, and of swimming in lampreys, have provided new information on the functional role of specific groups of sensory receptors in regulating locomotion. As we discuss in this review, these studies also make it clear that a full understanding of the neural and mechanical mechanisms that underlie locomotion can be achieved only by using simulations in parallel with physiological investigations. The widespread implementation of this approach would be enhanced by the development of freely available and easy-to-use software tools.