Abstract
Morphological studies have shown that axons of slowly adapting pulmonary stretch receptors (SARs) may supply more than one receptor structure. Thus, a single-unit of SARs may contain multiple encoders. We recorded SAR activities and searched for multiple receptive fields (MRFs) by probing the lung in anesthetized, open-chest and mechanically ventilated rabbits. One-third of SARs had clear MRFs. Selectively blocking fields with lidocaine, we found that each has its own encoder and discharge characteristics. Unit activity of SARs results from encoder interactions and undergoes significant integration before reaching the central nervous system.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have