Phrenic motor neuron loss in an animal model of early onset hypertonia
Joline E. Brandenburg, Matthew J. Fogarty, Alyssa Brown, Gary C. Sieck
Abstract
Phrenic motor neuron (PhMN) development in early onset hypertonia is poorly understood. Yet, respiratory disorders are a common cause of morbidity and mortality. In spa mice, an animal model of early onset hypertonia, we found ~30% fewer PhMNs, compared with controls. This PhMN loss disproportionately affected larger PhMNs. Thus, the number and heterogeneity of the PhMN pool are decreased in spa mice, likely contributing to the hypertonia, impaired neuromotor control, and respiratory disorders.
Topics & Concepts
HypertoniaNeuroscienceMotor neuronPsychologyPhysical medicine and rehabilitationMedicineSpinal cordNeuroscience of respiration and sleepNeonatal and fetal brain pathologySleep and Wakefulness Research