Sharleen T. Sakai

Our research focuses on the neural networks involved in voluntary movement including goal directed reaching and sequenced movement.  Our goal is understand the interface between the basal ganglia output nuclei, the cerebellum, motor cortical areas and descending systems in the production of coordinated goal directed motor activity.  Disorders of the basal ganglia such as Parkinsons's disease are associated with deficits in the initiation of movements whereas damage to the cerebellum result in loss of coordination and deficits in motor learning.  We have demonstrated that limited regions of the motor thalamus may be candidates for anatomical convergence by receiving projections from both the basal ganglia and cerebellum.  These thalamic areas may be important sites for motor integration as they are potentially modifiable anatomical substrates for the changes that occur as a result of motor learning.  In addition, we are currently collaborating with Dr. John Buford, Ohio State University, on an investigation of whether cortical input onto reticulospinal neurons is crucial for achieving goal directed reaching.  Knowledge of how these important elements link to separate motor circuits will aid in our understanding of how goal directed motor behavior is achieved and provide baseline data necessary for new treatment strategies of motor disorders.