The sensitive period in the development of the trigeminal system of the neonatal rat

摘要: In previous studies we have described vibrissae-related segmentation in the brainstem, thalamus, and cortex of neonatal rat. Using succinic dehydrogenase (SDH) histochemistry, delineated time course development normal at each level trigeminal system aberrant resulting from follicle damage birth (Killackey Belford, '79; Belford Killackey, '79a, b). The present study examines patterns that result to vibrissae follicles different ages, comparing levels system. The indicates a number similarities between central representations vibrissae. First, are similar within three nuclei for removal given age particular animal. These changes include decrease SDH density but maintenance row widths. Second, both ventrobasal complex layer IV somatosensory fusion individual clusters into bands, band width, density. Third, effects ages graded. Earlier produces more marked aberrations. Fourth, all structures, transition bands occurs with same age. Further, last which is Day 3 structures. Thus, data suggest there one sensitive period pattern alteration entire system.