Central pattern generators articles from across Nature Portfolio

In the Drosophila central-pattern-generating neural network, a mechanism for network desynchronization relying on weak electrical synapses and specific excitability dynamics of the coupled neurons translates unpatterned premotor input into stereotyped neuronal firing with fixed sequences of cell activation, ensuring stable wingbeat power.

The neuronal basis for respiratory augmentation during running is poorly understood. Here, the authors identify two neuronal pathways by which the central locomotor network can upregulate respiratory rate in running mice.

Breathing is controlled automatically but is also conditionally integrated with behavior and emotion in awake animals. Here, authors identify brainstem neurons that are important for controlling awake-state-dependent breathing patterns in mice.

Where and how the command signal for initiation of locomotion is integrated in the spinal cord has remained unresolved. Here, the authors uncover the functional chain of this signal from the brainstem locomotor command areas to neurons in the spinal cord.