Three-dimensional (3D) neural circuits and functions of the motor cortex in mice

Abstract

Movements are essential component for animal behavior directly related to survival, such as foraging, escaping predators. Movements require the coordinated control by various combinations of neural structures, including the motor cortex, basal ganglia, brainstem, cerebellum, and spinal cord. In particular, the motor cortex has been known to execute and control movements by conveying information about motor command to other brain regions. However, the detailed neural connectivity between the motor cortex and other brain regions, and exact function of the motor cortical circuit in movement control still remain unclear. Here, we have studied the motor cortical projection connectome map in 3-dimension (3D) and developed a behavioral model for studying roles of the motor cortex in sequential bimanual movements.