Central Pattern Generators

A central pattern generator (CPG) is defined as a set of neurons whose members work together to generate organized motor output activity. A round-table discussion on central pattern generators was held on November 21, 2012 as part of the Fifth All-Russian Conference on Animal Behavior in Moscow. The main topics of discussion were: 1) the mechanisms of the organization and rearrangement of pattern-generating neuron ensembles; 2) the possibility that structures of the central pattern generator type have a role in controlling non-motor brain functions; and 3) the evolutionary and ontogenetic aspects of central pattern generators.