Cover story in the journal “Neuron”: Newly discovered nerve
cells trigger locomotion and deliver information on movement velocity to the
spatial memory systems
(June 3, 2015) Researchers in Bonn have identified neural
circuits in the brains of mice that are pivotal for movement and navigation in
space. These nerve cells that are presumed to exist in a similar form in
humans, give the start signal for locomotion and also supply the brain with
speed-related information. Scientists at the German Center for
Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) and the University of Bonn led by Prof.
Stefan Remy report on this in the journal “Neuron”. Their investigations give
new insights into the workings of spatial memory. Furthermore, they could also
help improve our understanding of movement related symptoms associated with
Parkinson’s disease.