[Initiation of locomotion in decerebrated cat by using of impulse magnetic field projected onto the spinal cord segments].

The motor effects induced by impulse magnetic field (IMF) applied to lumbar as well as to cervical enlargements in decerebrated cat were studied. The magnetic coil with diameter 8 cm was placed on the distance 1-2 cm over the spinal cord. Single magnetic spinal cord stimulation with intensity 0.5-1 Tesla as well as continuous magnetic stimulation with frequency of 1 Hz and intensity 0.5 Tesla was performed. Single magnetic stimulation of lumbar enlargement elicited reflex responses in proximal and distal hind limb muscles. Continuous stimulation induced the locomotor activity in hind limbs on moving treadmill belt by activation of neuronal spinal locomotor networks (generator of stepping movements). The stimulation of lumbar enlargement involved into the locomotor activity only hind limbs. Continuous magnetic stimulation of cervical enlargerment evoked coordinated stepping movements in fore- and hind limbs. Initially stepping movements raised in hind limbs and then in forelimbs. After cessation of magnetic stimulation some coordinated stepping movements were observed. Thus, for the first time we showed a possibility to induce the locomotor activity in decerebrated cat by magnetic stimulation. The obtained results demonstrate the ability of non-invasive mode of neuronal spinal locomotor network activation. This approach opens new perspectives for using magnetic stimulation in clinical practice.