Modularity in Motor Control: from neural networks to muscle synergies

The field of motor control is characterized by a vast array of complex behaviors that are essential for numerous daily activities. Recent research has advanced our understanding of these behaviors by breaking down the motor system into modules, examining the interplay between neurons, muscles, and brain networks. This modular approach has illuminated how different levels of the nervous system, from spinal cord circuits to extensive brain networks, collaborate to produce efficient and adaptable motor outputs. Nonetheless, significant gaps remain in our understanding of how these modules are altered in aging or neurological conditions, particularly how these changes affect motor control and the potential benefits of therapeutic interventions.

The goal of this Research Topic is to comprehensively review, compare, and debate the existing theories and empirical evidence concerning the modular organization of motor control. Our objective is to synthesize knowledge across different levels of the motor system, focusing on collaborations between units, muscles, and neural circuits in both normal and impaired motor functions. The aim extends to exploring how these modules are adapted or modified during rehabilitation, the use of prosthetics, and when interacting with robotic technologies. Ultimately, this discussion could spur theoretical advancements and practical applications that enhance our understanding of motor control and contribute to improved methodologies in clinical settings.

To achieve a thorough exploration of motor modularity, this Research Topic will emphasize specific boundaries and limitations focused on understanding across multiple scales of motor control. We warmly invite contributions on a variety of related themes, including:
o The integration of motor unit and muscle activity within spinal and brain networks
o Characterization of muscle synergies in health and pathological states
o Impact of rehabilitation and assistive technologies on motor modularity
o Theoretical and methodological advancements in modular motor control research
o Cross-disciplinary approaches combining neuroimaging, computational neuroscience, and cognitive robotics.

By delineating these targeted areas, we aim to foster richer interdisciplinary dialogue and research that bridges currently segregated areas of knowledge.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Clinical Trial
• Community Case Study
• Conceptual Analysis
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Clinical Trial
• Community Case Study
• Conceptual Analysis
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Study Protocol
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: Neural Network, Non-negative matrix factorization, Cortico-motoneuronal coherence, Cortico-synergy coherence, Clustering, Muscle network, Motor unit coherence, Motor neuron synergies, Brain connectomes, Principal Component Analysis, Factor Analysis

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.