Emergent Aspects of the Integration of Sensory and Motor Functions

Abstract

This article delves into the intricate mechanisms underlying sensory integration in the executive control of movement, encompassing ideomotor activity, predictive capabilities, and motor control systems. It examines the interplay between motor and sensory functions, highlighting the role of the cortical and subcortical regions of the central nervous system in enhancing environmental interaction. The acquisition of motor skills, procedural memory, and the representation of actions in the brain are discussed emphasizing the significance of mental imagery and training in motor function. The development of this aspect of sensorimotor integration control can help to advance our understanding of the interactions between executive motor control, cortical mechanisms, and consciousness. Bridging theoretical insights with practical applications, it sets the stage for future innovations in clinical rehabilitation, assistive technology, and education. The ongoing exploration of these domains promises to uncover new pathways for enhancing human capability and well-being.

Keywords: imagery; motor control; rehabilitation; sensorimotor integration.

Figure 1

The basal ganglia pathway. (a) A simplified diagram of the cortico-basal ganglia–thalamus loop. (b) Multiple types of neuromodulatory inputs to the striatum. Abbreviations: 5HT, serotonin; ACh, acetylcholine; GPe, external segment of the globus pallidus; GPi, internal segment of the globus pallidus; LC, locus coeruleus; NE, norepinephrine; PPN-LDT, pedunculopontine nucleus–laterodorsal tegmental complex; SNc, substantia nigra pars compacta; SNr, substantia nigra pars reticulata; TAN, tonically active neurons; VTA, ventral tegmental area (modified from reference [85]. Copyright © 2023 Ding L. Licensed under CC BY 4.0).

Figure 2

Activation in cortical and cerebellar regions during movement execution, observation, and imagery (from reference [107]: Copyright © 2023 Henschke and Pakan. Licensed under CC BY).

Figure 3

Schematic representation of voluntary movement circuitry. The intention to move is generated in the prefrontal cortex and limbic area. The complex movement sequences of movements are subsequently programmed in the presupplementary and supplementary motor areas. The premotor cortex is primarily involved in movements selection based on external information from the parietal cortex. The presupplementary and supplementary motor areas, along with the premotor cortex, produce the readiness potentials (BP1) as the expression of the brain preparing for the execution of the voluntary movement [110] that is transmitted through the motor cortex to the basal ganglia and cerebellum for motor control modulation. The processed information is then sent back to the motor cortex via the thalamus. Simultaneously, a corollary discharge (feedforward model) is generated and directed to the parietal cortex to compare with proprioceptive feedback, thereby creating a sense of agency. Ultimately, the neural signal exits the primary motor cortex (BP2) to the spinal cord and contralateral muscles, initiating the actual movement (modified from reference [109], Copyright © 2022 Virameteekul and Bhidayasiri. Licensed under CC BY).