A novel instrumented multipeg running wheel system, Step-Wheel, for monitoring and controlling complex sequential stepping in mice

Abstract

Graybiel AM, Yamamori T. A novel instrumented multipeg running wheel system, Step-Wheel, for monitoring and controlling complex sequential stepping in mice. J Neurophysiol 106: 479 -487, 2011. First published April 27, 2011 doi:10.1152/jn.00139.2011.-Motor control is critical in daily life as well as in artistic and athletic performance and thus is the subject of intense interest in neuroscience. Mouse models of movement disorders have proven valuable for many aspects of investigation, but adequate methods for analyzing complex motor control in mouse models have not been fully established. Here, we report the development of a novel running-wheel system that can be used to evoke simple and complex stepping patterns in mice. The stepping patterns are controlled by spatially organized pegs, which serve as footholds that can be arranged in adjustable, ladder-like configurations. The mice run as they drink water from a spout, providing reward, while the wheel turns at a constant speed. The stepping patterns of the mice can thus be controlled not only spatially, but also temporally. A voltage sensor to detect paw touches is attached to each peg, allowing precise registration of footfalls. We show that this device can be used to analyze patterns of complex motor coordination in mice. We further demonstrate that it is possible to measure patterns of neural activity with chronically implanted tetrodes as the mice engage in vigorous running bouts. We suggest that this instrumented multipeg running wheel (which we name the Step-Wheel System) can serve as an important tool in analyzing motor control and motor learning in mice. motor control; locomotion; sequences of actions; timing and rhythm MOTOR CONTROL TYPICALLY INVOLVES not only the performance of particular movements, but also coordination of the timing of these movements. Disturbance of such timing control often

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Does individual quality mask the detection of performance trade-offs? A test using analyses of human physical performance

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Learning new sequential stepping patterns requires striatal plasticity during the earliest phase of acquisition

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