Effects of acute hypoxia on human spinal motoneurone function and muscle performance

Project Outline:

Human movement occurs through muscle contractions that are controlled by motor nerve cells in the spinal cord. These cells, which are called motoneurones, are primarily controlled by signals from the motor parts of the brain. In some conditions, such as spinal cord injury and stroke, muscle weakness occurs because signals from the brain to the spinal cord are reduced. One way to improve muscle strength may be to amplify the descending signals by increasing the strength of connections in the spinal cord. It has been proposed that exposure to brief periods of low oxygen may help strengthen connections in the spinal cord, and hence improve motor performance in people with incomplete spinal cord injury or stroke. This process is not well understood in humans. Thus, studies will assess the effects of exposure to brief periods of low oxygen with neurophysiological testing in humans.

Research questions

1. Does a brief period of low oxygen result in release of serotonin onto motoneurones in the spinal cord in able-bodied people?
2. Does a brief period of low oxygen result in release of serotonin onto motoneurones in the spinal cord of people with incomplete spinal cord injury?
3. Does one session of brief periods of low oxygen alter muscle responses evoked by stimulation of the brain and nerves, and/or alter voluntary motor output in able-bodied people?

Desired Skills: This project will suit students with an interest in motor control and neurophysiology. It will require hands-on studies in human participants.

Project Area: Exercise and Sports Science

School / Research Centre / Institute : School of Medical and Health Sciences research

Supervisor(s): Professor Janet Taylor

Project level: Honours, Masters, PhD

Start date: Ongoing