Abstract
In order to clarify the role of the amygdaloid nucleus in equilibrium function, the following experiments were carried out: nine electric stimuli, 0.1 msec, 200Hz pulse waves at 3 volts during a 30-second period were applied daily to a rabbit's amygdaloid nucleus (medial or lateral area).Optokinetic nystagmus and the EEG in response to optic stimulation were measured before and after the nine electric stimuli.In addition, the blood pressure was measured in rabbits with repeated electric stimulation of the medial or lateral area of the same amygdaloid nucleus. Stimulation was with 0.1 msec, 200Hz pulse waves at 30 volts for about 23 seconds.(1) Rabbits with repeated electric stimulation of the medial area of the amygdaloid nucleus tended to show increased optokinetic nystagmus and increased EEG activity in response to optic stimulation. Furthermore, their blood pressure increased when the medial area was stimulated.(2) Rabbits with repeated electric stimulation of the lateral area of the amygdaloid nucleus tended to show reduced optokinetic nystagmus and EEG activity and a decrease in blood pressure.The following conclusions were drawn:(1) The amygdaloid nucleus correlates with the brain stem, particularly the ascending activating system, in the maintenance of equilibrium.(2) The medial area of the amygdaloid nucleus actively participates in the maintenance of equilibrium function, promoting activity of the brain stem. The lateral area of the amygdaloid nucleus has an opposite function and seems to inhibit overexcitement of the brain stem, resulting in smooth maintenance of body equilibrium.
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