Abstract
Considerable evidence suggests that the amygdaloid central nucleus (ACE) may contribute importantly to autonomie regulation, possibly via direct ACE projections to the brainstem. Lacking, however, have been comprehensive data concerning the electrophysiological characteristics of ACE neurons. The present experiment was therefore undertaken in order to characterize the spontaneous activity and sensory-evoked responses of ACE neurons in the conscious rabbit. Particular attention was given to the identification, via antidromic activation, and characterization of those ACE neurons which project to the lower brainstem. Single-unit recordings were obtained from 100 histologically verified ACE neurons. Most of these, including all brainstem projection neurons, discharged at very low spontaneous rates and were unresponsive to the presentation of auditory, visual and somatic stimuli. Based upon spontaneous activity and sensory-evoked responses, the activity of other ACE neurons appeared to conform to one of several profiles. These included neurons showing increased activity to the presentation of all sensory stimuli, and neurons showing activity that was spontaneously entrained with the respiratory cycle. These data indicate the heterogeneous nature of ACE neuronal activity, and provide a basis for the comparison of additional experiments which concern the electrophysiological characteristics of the ACE.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.