Neuromorphological bases of sensorimotor reactions

Abstract

Sensory motor activity is a typical form of purposeful human functioning that plays a significant role in the work of power structures. Its research is widespread in all spheres of military medicine. The aim of the study is to systematize the components and principles of organization of structural and functional elements of the central nervous system providing sensorimotor reactions based on the literature data. We obtained results on the combination of the somatotopic arrangement and the hierarchical principle of organization of sensorimotor circuits, according to which three levels are distinguished - medullary, subcortical and cortical. Sensory signals are converted into explicit motor signals as early as possible, and are subsequently subjected to modulating influences from memory, attention, and other neurophysiological processes at each of the above levels. Thus, sensory and motor information processing should not be regarded as the result of isolated neural circuits, but as extensive and closely interconnected networks covering the cerebral cortex and subcortical structures, in unity with other neurophysiological phenomena, such as memory and attention. The neuromorphological basis for the organization of sensorimotor reactions should be considered when developing a set of measures for professional selection, training, pharmacological correction of combat conditions and treatment of posttraumatic syndrome in employees of power structures.