Convergent afferent inputs to neurones in nucleus paragigantocellularis lateralis in the cat

Abstract

Neuronal activity was recorded in nucleus paragigantocellularis lateralis (PGL) of the cat in response to stimulation of the dorsal periaqueductal grey matter (dPAG), parabrachial nucleus (PBN) nucleus raphe magnus (NRM), and nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS). Stimulation in dPAG or PBN evoked excitatory responses whilst the prevalent response to stimulation in NRM or NTS was inhibition of neuronal activity. 45/55 (82%) of cells tested received convergent inputs from 2 or more sites of stimulation. These findings are discussed in relation to the role of PGL in cardiovascular control and descending control of noxious input.