Movements resembling orientation or avoidance elicited by electrical stimulation of the superior colliculus in rats

摘要: Some studies have reported that stimulation of the superior colliculus in rats produces orienting responses, as it does a number species. However, other movements resembling avoidance and escape, which are not characteristic collicular mammals. This apparent discrepancy was investigated by systematically recording effects on head body electrical at large sites throughout (SC) surrounding structures. It found nature observed depended location stimulating electrode. Contralateral approach were obtained from intermediate deep layers rostral colliculus, white layer immediately tissue central all except caudal colliculus. At remaining responsive sites, escape obtained. The most common response an ipsilateral cringelike movement developed into locomotion, followed running jumping current increased. These superficial rostrally; gray medial colliculus; underlying tegmentum caudally. distributions together with evidence studies, suggested following conclusions: Within layers, responses region appeared to represent upper visual field, whereas apparently representing lower field. Stimulation area containing cells origin predorsal bundle produced orientation movements, probably mediated parts descending pathway. stimulation-induced may reflect importance such “events,” particularly part animals, like rats, many predators.