Stereotactic functional mapping of the cat motor cortex

Epidural motor cortex stimulation is an increasingly used method to control refractory neuropathic pain although its mechanisms of action remain poorly understood. Animal models are currently developed that allow reproducing the conditions of this neurosurgical approach and clarifying its mechanisms. In this study we validate a new stereotactic functional map of the cat motor cortex carried out in epidural conditions, thus allowing future experimentations that closely mimic the technique used in humans.

► We determined stereotactic coordinates of the cat motor cortex and its sub-regions. ► Subdural and epidural bipolar stimulations led to similar results. ► This allows the development of a cat model of chronic motor cortex stimulation. ► This model should help to uncover mechanisms of this therapeutic technique used in humans.