Tremorgenesis: a new conceptual scheme using reciprocally innervated circuit of neurons
2008
Understanding Tremor Disorders
Editorial
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Manto Mario
Primary Institution: FNRS ULB Erasme
Hypothesis
Increased membrane excitability in pre-motor neurons has a key role in the pathogenesis of disorders like essential tremor.
Conclusion
The proposed model provides new insights into the mechanisms of tremor disorders and suggests potential treatment avenues.
Supporting Evidence
- The model fits well with the known anatomical organization of neural circuits for limb movements.
- Increased excitability could result from an increase in specific ion currents.
- The simulations support the hypothesis that increased membrane excitability generates oscillations mimicking tremor disorders.
Takeaway
Tremors happen when muscles shake too much, and scientists are trying to understand why this happens so they can help people feel better.
Methodology
The authors simulated a Hodgkin-Huxley type model of pre-motor burst neurons responsible for ballistic limb movements.
Limitations
Current tools have not allowed the grasping of the activity of the brain networks at a cellular level.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website