Central pattern generator

As a central pattern generator (CPG, German " central pattern generator ", ZMG ) is called in the neuroanatomy of Special Collections of nerve cells in the spinal cord, which are able to independently induce rhythmic muscle twitches and such an important role in continuous movements, such as walking play.

The peculiarity of this central activity pattern generators is that they do not like other nerve cells must be repeatedly activated by an over -connected brain center, but after a start activation are independently able to send action potentials in a regular sequence.

Examples of movements whose unconscious automatic process made ​​possible by CPGs, are walking, running or swimming. The rhythmic movements based on the alternating activation of flexors and extensors of the corresponding areas of the body.