Brain-controlled modulation of spinal circuits improves recovery from spinal cord injury.

ABSTRACT: The delivery of brain-controlled neuromodulation therapies during motor rehabilitation may augment recovery from neurological disorders. To test this hypothesis, we conceived a brain-controlled neuromodulation therapy that combines the technical and practical features necessary to be deployed daily during gait rehabilitation. Rats received a severe spinal cord contusion that led to leg paralysis. We engineered a proportional brain-spine interface whereby cortical ensemble activity constantly determines the amplitude of spinal cord stimulation protocols promoting leg flexion during swing. After minimal calibration time and without prior training, this neural bypass enables paralyzed rats to walk overground and adjust foot clearance in order to climb a staircase. Compared to continuous spina

SUBMITTER: Bonizzato M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6070513 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature