In this episode, coauthors Anupam Bisht and Cecilia Badenhorst discuss their study, “Deep brain stimulation of A13 region evokes robust locomotory response in rats.” Their research demonstrates that deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the A13 region in rats robustly increases locomotor activity without inducing anxiety using a novel wireless stimulation approach, suggesting that A13 may be a promising therapeutic target for gait dysfunction in Parkinson’s disease.    Deep brain stimulation of A13 region evokes robust locomotory response in rats Anupam Bisht, Cecilia Badenhorst, Zelma H. T. Kiss, Kartikeya Murari, and Patrick J. Whelan Journal of Neurophysiology 2025 133:5, 1594-1606

In this episode, coauthors Stephanie Gaudreau and Tuan Bui discuss their recently published research, “Pharmacological modulation of the M-current shapes locomotor function in developing zebrafish.” For the first time, they show that the M-current influences escape responses and swimming in larval zebrafish, with experiments in isolated spinal preparations revealing its presence in spinal circuits. Pharmacological modulation of the M-current shapes locomotor function in developing zebrafish Stephanie F. Gaudreau and Tuan V. Bui Journal of Neurophysiology 2025 133:6, 1795-1806

In our latest episode, Journal of Neurophysiology Editor-in-Chief Dr. Nino Ramirez discusses the life and scientific legacy of Dr. Joseph Erlanger with Dr. Erlanger’s granddaughter, Dorothy Erlanger. While the world knows Dr. Joseph Erlanger as a scientific pioneer in the fields of neuroscience and cardiovascular science, Dorothy Erlanger remembers her grandfather as a humble person who enjoyed weekly dinners and playing cards with his family. His work as an experimental pioneer led Dr. Erlanger, along with his collaborator Dr. Herbert Gasser, to be the first to visualize an action potential with the cathode-ray oscilloscope. This discovery led to Dr. Erlanger being awarded the Nobel Prize and continues to drive scientific discovery to this day. Listen as Dorothy Erlanger shares anecdotes about her grandfather’s real life as a scientist with engaging personal details, such as the description of the challenges Dr. Erlanger faced trying to obtain clean electrophysiological tracings with a streetcar line running beside the laboratory building. Dr. Ramirez shares the fascinating history of why Dr. Erlanger’s work was so revolutionary. How did Dr. Erlanger’s discovery about the complexities of differently shaped action potentials lead to breakthroughs in anesthesia, analgesia, and our understanding of pain? Listen now and find out.   Erlanger Family Gifts Renowned Physiologist’s Nobel Medal to APS

In this episode, coauthor Lauren Hewitt discusses her recently published study, “Higher hyperpolarization activated current (Ih) in a subpopulation of interneurons in stratum oriens of area CA1 in the hippocampus of Fragile X mice.” The research examines how inhibitory interneurons are altered in a fragile X mouse model, revealing that increased Ih current reduces the excitability of a specific interneuron subtype. These findings highlight how changes in voltage-gated ion channel function can disrupt the brain’s excitatory/inhibitory balance, offering new insights into circuit dysfunction in fragile X syndrome.   Higher hyperpolarization-activated current in a subpopulation of interneurons in stratum oriens of area CA1 in the hippocampus of fragile X mice   Lauren T. Hewitt, Alyssa M. Marron, and Darrin H. Brager Journal of Neurophysiology 2025 133:5, 1558-1571

In this episode of the Journal of Neurophysiology’s podcast series, coauthor Andrea Gigliotti discusses the newly published review, “Emerging evidence on the effects of electrode arrangements and other parameters on the application of transcutaneous spinal direct current stimulation.” Gigliotti explains how computer simulations are helping researchers understand the role of electrode placement, polarity, and tissue properties in shaping tsDCS outcomes. He also describes why dosage may matter less than previously thought and what future trials should consider to make tsDCS more effective in both research and clinical settings.   Emerging evidence on the effects of electrode arrangements and other parameters on the application of transcutaneous spinal direct current stimulation Andrea Gigliotti and Hugo M. Pereira Journal of Neurophysiology 2025 133:2, 709-721

In this episode, coauthor Daniel C. Basile discusses the team’s newly published research, "Investigating motor unit firing rates during arm cycling compared with intensity-matched isometric contractions in humans." Until now, motor unit firing rates (MUFRs) during upper-limb locomotor tasks had not been recorded in humans, leaving gaps in our understanding of how motor units behave during dynamic, CPG-mediated activity. Using indwelling fine-wire electrodes, the study reveals that MUFRs are significantly higher during arm cycling compared to isometric contractions, pointing to distinct neural control strategies between these movement types. Tune in to explore the implications for motor control and rehabilitation science.   Investigating motor unit firing rates during arm cycling compared with intensity-matched isometric contractions in humans Daniel C. Basile, Alysha D. Wira, Charles L. Rice, and Kevin E. Power Journal of Neurophysiology 2025 134:1, 162-170

In this episode, coauthors Lu-Chun Yeh and Daniel Kaiser discuss their recently published Short Report, "Cortical alpha rhythms interpolate occluded motion from natural scene context." When objects or people become temporarily hidden from view, our brains rely on environmental cues to predict their motion. This study shows that cortical alpha oscillations play a key role in this process, tracking not only visible movement but also anticipating whether motion continues or stops based on obstacles in the scene. Tune in to learn how these brain rhythms help us fill in the blanks of dynamic, real-world perception.   Cortical alpha rhythms interpolate occluded motion from natural scene context Lu-Chun Yeh, Max Bardelang, and Daniel Kaiser Journal of Neurophysiology 2025 133:5, 1497-1502

In this episode of the Journal of Neurophysiology’s podcast series, coauthor Lorenzo Landolfi joins us to discuss the newly published research titled "Reverse correlation of natural statistics for ecologically relevant characterization of human perceptual templates." Reverse correlation remains a cornerstone technique for probing neuronal and perceptual receptive fields, yet its application to naturalistic behavior is complicated by the complex structure of real-world stimuli. While advances in accounting for natural statistics have shown promise in neuronal studies, their relevance to human perception has remained uncertain—until now. Landolfi explains how these methods can be extended to psychophysical settings, the important caveats researchers must consider, and what the findings reveal about how we interpret our visual world.   Reverse correlation of natural statistics for ecologically relevant characterization of human perceptual templates Lorenzo Landolfi and Peter Neri Journal of Neurophysiology 2025 133:6, 1717-1739

In this episode of the Journal of Neurophysiology’s podcast series, coauthor Véronique Marchand-Pauvert discusses key findings from the team's published study, "Synaptic dynamics linked to widespread elevation of H-reflex before peripheral denervation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis." The episode explores how an increased H-reflex—observed even without clear evidence of peripheral denervation—may reflect early synaptic changes in ALS. Marchand-Pauvert explains how this phenomenon appears widespread across different onset sites and may result from reduced inhibitory control over Ia afferent-motoneuron transmission. While its association with exaggerated reflexes and spasticity may limit diagnostic specificity, the H-reflex’s measurable nature makes it a promising biomarker in ALS clinical trials.   Synaptic dynamics linked to widespread elevation of H-reflex before peripheral denervation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis Sina Sangari, Alexandra Lackmy-Vallee, Arnaud Preuilh, Iseline Peyre, Pierre-François Pradat, and Véronique Marchand-Pauvert Journal of Neurophysiology 2024 132:5, 1541-1560

In this episode of the Journal of Neurophysiology's podcast series, we spotlight the research titled “Discovery of the Aβ receptor that controls the voltage-gated sodium channel activity: unraveling mechanisms underlying neuronal hyperexcitability.” Alzheimer’s disease is well known for memory loss and cognitive decline—but behind these symptoms lies a web of complex neuronal dysfunction. This study reveals that amyloid beta peptides (Aβs), known to enhance sodium channel activity and drive hyperexcitability, exert their effects via an unexpected molecular player: the type I taste receptor, T1R2/T1R3. Using advanced patch-clamp techniques, the researchers identified this novel Aβ receptor, opening a promising new path for therapeutic intervention. By targeting this receptor, future treatments may be able to reduce Aβ-induced hyperactivity and slow AD progression.   Discovery of the Aβ receptor that controls the voltage-gated sodium channel activity: unraveling mechanisms underlying neuronal hyperexcitability Mitsuyoshi Luke Saito, Tsutomu Sasaki, and Mariko Ruth Saito Journal of Neurophysiology 2025 133:6, 1861-1885

In this episode, lead author Alexander M. Zero highlights their newly published research, “Without visual feedback voluntary torque is overestimated during muscle potentiation despite similar motor unit firing rate and perception of exertion.” Alexander Zero breaks down their findings on how visual feedback — or the lack of it — influences voluntary torque control during muscle potentiation. Despite changes in muscle state, the study reveals that motor unit firing rates and perceived exertion remain consistent without visual cues. This suggests that the nervous system adjusts motor output not through peripheral feedback, but through central mechanisms influenced by perception. Tune in for a fascinating dive into neuromuscular physiology, the role of sensory feedback in motor control, and what these insights mean for athletic training, rehabilitation, and our broader understanding of voluntary movement.   Without visual feedback voluntary torque is overestimated during muscle potentiation despite similar motor unit firing rate and perception of exertion Alexander M. Zero and Charles L. Rice Journal of Neurophysiology 2025 133:3, 775-783

In this episode, coauthors Dr. Bing Xin Song and Dr. Krista L. Lanctôt give a snapshot of their recently published manuscript, "Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Regional Cerebral Blood Flow in Early Alzheimer’s Disease." Building on past in vitro and in vivo studies, their work highlights a compelling link between angiogenesis and cerebral blood flow (CBF) in individuals with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. Using a combination of neuroimaging and neurophysiology techniques, the study reveals a significant association between circulating vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and regional CBF.    Vascular endothelial growth factor and regional cerebral blood flow in early Alzheimer’s disease Bing Xin Song, Guocheng Jiang, Melissa Wong, Damien Gallagher, Bradley J. MacIntosh, Ana C. Andreazza, Erika L. Beroncal, Sandra E. Black, Nathan Herrmann, Jocelyn Charles, Fuqiang Gao, Alex Kiss, Giovanni Marotta, and Krista L. Lanctôt Journal of Neurophysiology 2025 133:3, 924-929

In this episode, coauthor Mélanie Henry highlights the findings of the newly published study, “Influence of Age and Feedback Modality on the Proprioceptive Sense of Force: Insights from Motor Unit Recordings.”  She discusses how different types of feedback—auditory vs. visual—affect force-reproduction accuracy across age groups. Surprisingly, middle-aged and older adults performed better with auditory feedback, an improvement linked to increased motor unit coherence in the beta band. Tune in to explore how aging influences proprioception, how the brain adapts to different sensory inputs, and what this means for motor control and rehabilitation strategies.   Influence of age and feedback modality on the proprioceptive sense of force: insights from motor unit recordings Mélanie Henry, Abdulkerim Darendeli, Taylor Tvrdy, Sajjad Daneshgar, and Roger M. Enoka Journal of Neurophysiology 2025 133:4, 1103-1115

In this episode, coauthor Gretchen Seif discusses her recently published study, “Neurophysiological Effects of Latent Trigger Point Dry Needling on Spinal Reflexes.” Dive into the fascinating world of deep dry needling (DDN) as she highlights its impact on spinal reflexes in the triceps surae. Dr. Seif breaks down the study's key findings—including unchanged H reflex responses and increased soleus inhibition immediately and 72 hours post-DDN—along with the observed gains in ankle range of motion. Learn how these differential effects on excitatory and inhibitory reflexes reveal the complex spinal-level mechanisms of DDN and what it could mean for clinical practice.   Neurophysiological effects of latent trigger point dry needling on spinal reflexes Gretchen Seif, Alan M. Phipps, Joseph M. Donnelly, Blair H. S. Dellenbach, and Aiko K. Thompson Journal of Neurophysiology 2025 133:1, 288-298

In this episode, coauthor Karoline Martins dos Santos discusses the recently published research, "Insulin activates parasympathetic hepatic-related neurons of the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus through mTOR signaling." The study investigates the complex role of insulin in regulating hepatic glucose production, focusing on how insulin influences specific brain regions. While it's known that insulin reduces liver glucose production, the precise mechanisms and brain areas involved have remained unclear. Dr. Martins dos Santos explains how insulin activates parasympathetic hepatic-related neurons in the paraventricular nucleus (PVNhepatic) and how this process relies on mTOR signaling.    Insulin activates parasympathetic hepatic-related neurons of the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus through mTOR signaling Karoline Martins dos Santos, Sandy E. Saunders, Vagner R. Antunes, and Carie R. Boychuk Journal of Neurophysiology 2025 133:1, 320-332

In this episode, coauthor Lei Zhang explores the research titled "Estimating descending activation patterns from EMG in fast and slow movements using a model of the stretch reflex." Lei introduces a novel method that directly estimates descending activation from electromyographic (EMG) signals and arm kinematics by inverting a model of the spinal stretch reflex—without relying on muscle models or an arm dynamics model. This innovative approach uncovers how movement speed influences the time structure of descending activation, while also highlighting the crucial role of the spinal stretch reflex in movement generation.   Estimating descending activation patterns from EMG in fast and slow movements using a model of the stretch reflex Lei Zhang and Gregor Schöner Journal of Neurophysiology 2025 133:1, 162-176

In this episode, coauthor Megan Goar discusses the recently published research titled "Light touch alters vestibular-evoked balance responses: insights into dynamics of sensorimotor reweighting." The research uncovers how minimal fingertip contact (light touch) during balance tasks can reduce the impact of electrical vestibular stimulation (EVS) on body sway. Not only does this touch alter sway magnitude, but it also reveals a high-frequency center of pressure element, tied to vestibular inputs, that is typically unseen in free-standing postures. Ms. Goar explains how these findings highlight the central nervous system’s remarkable ability to adaptively reweight sensorimotor processes to optimize balance control.   Light touch alters vestibular-evoked balance responses: insights into dynamics of sensorimotor reweighting Megan H. Goar, Michael Barnett-Cowan, and Brian C. Horslen Journal of Neurophysiology 2025 133:1, 142-161

In this episode, coauthor Ernesto Bedoy discusses their recently published research, "Improving Localization and Measurements of M-Waves Using High-Density Surface Electromyography." The study presents an innovative approach to enhancing the measurement of evoked potentials through high-density surface electromyography (HD-sEMG). By incorporating spatial filters and ultrasound imaging, the research significantly improves the precision and localization of evoked potentials, providing a more accurate method for assessing motor pathway integrity. These advancements hold promise for developing better tools to detect and treat neurological deficits, offering a significant contribution to the field of neurophysiological research.   Improving localization and measurements of M-waves using high-density surface electromyography Ernesto H. Bedoy, Efrain A. Guirola Diaz, Ashley N. Dalrymple, Isaiah Levy, Thomas Hyatt, Darcy M. Griffin, George F. Wittenberg, and Douglas J. Weber Journal of Neurophysiology 2025 133:1, 299-309

In this episode, coauthor Obaid U. Khurram discusses their recently published research, "Hypercapnia Impacts Neural Drive and Timing of Diaphragm Neuromotor Control." The study explores the complex neuromotor control of the diaphragm muscle (DIAm) under hypercapnic conditions, an area that has not been fully understood. Dr. Khurram explains how hypercapnia increases motor unit recruitment and discharge rates, indicating an enhanced respiratory drive. The research also reveals how hypercapnia affects the postinspiratory (descending) ramp of diaphragm EMG activity, shortening it to facilitate faster respiratory rates. Tune in for valuable insights into the physiological mechanisms of diaphragm function and adaptation in response to elevated carbon dioxide levels.   Hypercapnia impacts neural drive and timing of diaphragm neuromotor control Obaid U. Khurram, Maximilian J. Kantor-Gerber, Carlos B. Mantilla, and Gary C. Sieck Journal of Neurophysiology 2024 132:6, 1966-1976

In this episode, coauthors Maria Knikou and Abdullah M. Sayed Ahmad discuss their research on "Transspinal stimulation downregulates flexion reflex pathways during walking in healthy humans." The study investigates how transspinal stimulation over the thoracolumbar region affects reflex pathways during walking, revealing its ability to suppress the tibialis anterior flexion reflex at varying frequencies (15, 30, and 50 Hz). Transspinal stimulation downregulates flexion reflex pathways during walking in healthy humans Maria Knikou and Abdullah M. Sayed Ahmad Journal of Neurophysiology 2025 133:2, 530-538