Department of Numerical Analysis and Computing Science, Kungliga Tekniska H?gskolan, SE-100 44 Stockholm, Sweden, SE Department of Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden, SE
Abstract:
A phenomenological model of the mechanism of stabilization of the body orientation during locomotion (dorsal side up) in
the lamprey is presented. The mathematical modeling is based on experimental results obtained during investigations of postural
control in lampreys using a combined in vivo and robotics approach. The dynamics of the model agree qualitatively with the
experimental data. It is shown by computer simulations that postural correction commands from reticulospinal neurons provide
information sufficient to stabilize body orientation in the lamprey. The model is based on differences between the effects
exerted by the vestibular apparatus on the left and the right side.
Received: 16 February 2000 / Accepted in revised form: 29 September 2000