Tapping into the vocal learning and rhythmic synchronization hypothesis
BMC Neuroscience,
Journal Year:
2024,
Volume and Issue:
25(1)
Published: Nov. 6, 2024
Abstract
In
this
article,
I
present
three
main
points
that
could
benefit
the
“vocal
learning
and
rhythmic
synchronization
hypothesis”,
encompassing
neurogenetic
mechanisms
of
gene
expression
transmission
single
motor
neuron
function,
classification
different
behavioral
phenotypes
(e.g.,
spontaneous
vs.
voluntary),
other
evolutionary
considerations
(i.e.,
involvement
reward
mechanisms).
Language: Английский
Spontaneously regenerative corticospinal neurons in mice
bioRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory),
Journal Year:
2024,
Volume and Issue:
unknown
Published: Sept. 12, 2024
The
spinal
cord
receives
inputs
from
the
cortex
via
corticospinal
neurons
(CSNs).
While
predominantly
a
contralateral
projection,
less-investigated
minority
of
its
axons
terminate
in
ipsilateral
cord.
We
analyzed
spatial
and
molecular
properties
these
their
post-synaptic
targets
mice
found
they
project
primarily
to
ventral
horn,
including
directly
motor
neurons.
Barcode-based
reconstruction
revealed
class
bilaterally-projecting
CSNs
with
distinct
cortical
distribution.
ipsilaterally-projecting
(IP-CSNs)
are
strikingly
similar
previously
described
signature
embryonic-like
regenerating
CSNs.
Finally,
we
show
that
IP-CSNs
spontaneously
regenerative
after
injury.
discovery
may
prove
valuable
study
Additionally,
this
work
suggests
retention
juvenile-like
characteristics
be
widespread
phenomenon
adult
nervous
systems.
Language: Английский
Selective expansion of motor cortical projections in the evolution of vocal novelty
bioRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory),
Journal Year:
2024,
Volume and Issue:
unknown
Published: Sept. 14, 2024
Deciphering
how
cortical
architecture
evolves
to
drive
behavioral
innovations
is
a
long-standing
challenge
in
neuroscience
and
evolutionary
biology.
Here,
we
leverage
striking
novelty
the
Alston’s
singing
mouse
(
Scotinomys
teguina
),
compared
laboratory
Mus
musculus
quantitatively
test
models
of
motor
evolution.
We
used
bulk
tracing,
serial
two-photon
tomography,
high-throughput
DNA
sequencing
over
76,000
barcoded
neurons
discover
specific
substantial
expansion
∼
200%)
orofacial
(OMC)
projections
auditory
region
(AudR)
midbrain
periaqueductal
gray
(PAG),
both
implicated
vocal
behaviors.
Moreover,
analysis
individual
OMC
neurons’
projection
motifs
revealed
preferential
exclusive
AudR.
Our
results
imply
that
selective
ancestral
can
underlie
divergence
short
timescales,
suggesting
potential
mechanisms
for
evolution
enhanced
control
vocalizations—a
crucial
preadaptation
human
language.
Language: Английский
Enhancing cortico-motoneuronal projections for vocalization in mice
bioRxiv (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory),
Journal Year:
2024,
Volume and Issue:
unknown
Published: Oct. 16, 2024
Abstract
Several
hypotheses
have
been
proposed
on
the
anatomical
brain
differences
that
endow
some
species
with
rare
ability
of
vocal
learning,
a
critical
component
spoken
language.
One
long-standing
thus
far
untested
hypothesis
is
robust
direct
projection
from
motor
cortex
layer
5
neurons
to
brainstem
enables
fine
control
laryngeal
musculature
in
learners.
This
connection
has
form
specialized
expression
axon
guidance
genes
human
speech
and
equivalent
songbird
nucleus
arcopallium.
Here
we
generated
mice
conditional
knockdown
an
axon-guidance
receptor,
PLXNA1,
neurons,
recapitulate
patterns.
These
showed
enhanced
cortical
projections
increased
functional
connectivity
phonatory
muscles,
displayed
wider
range
abilities
depending
developmental
social
contexts.
Our
findings
are
consistent
theory
cortico-motoneuronal
influence
behaviors.
Language: Английский