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The Pontomedullary Reticular Formation Contributes To The Compensatory Postural Responses Observed Following Removal Of The Support Surface In The Standing Cat, Paul Stapley, Trevor Drew
The Pontomedullary Reticular Formation Contributes To The Compensatory Postural Responses Observed Following Removal Of The Support Surface In The Standing Cat, Paul Stapley, Trevor Drew
Dr Paul J Stapley
This study was designed to determine the contribution of reticular neurons in the pontomedullary reticular formation (PMRF) to the postural responses produced to compensate for an unexpected perturbation. We recorded the activity of 48 neurons in the PMRF, including 41 reticulospinal neurons, to removal of the support surface under each of the four limbs in four cats. The perturbations produced robust postural responses that were divided into three periods: an initial postural response (P1) that displaced the center of vertical pressure over the two diagonal supporting limbs; a secondary response (P2) during which the cat restored a tripedal support pattern; …
Neurons In The Pontomedullary Reticular Formation Signal Posture And Movement Both As An Integrated Behavior And Independently, Benedicte Schepens, Paul Stapley, Trevor Drew
Neurons In The Pontomedullary Reticular Formation Signal Posture And Movement Both As An Integrated Behavior And Independently, Benedicte Schepens, Paul Stapley, Trevor Drew
Dr Paul J Stapley
We have previously suggested that the discharge characteristics of some neurons in the pontomedullary reticular formation (PMRF) are contingent on the simultaneous requirement for activity in both ipsilateral flexor muscles and contralateral extensors. To test this hypothesis we trained cats to stand on four force platforms and to perform a task in which they were required to reach forward with one forelimb or the other and depress a lever. As such the task required the cat to make a flexion movement followed by an extension in the reaching limb while maintaining postural support by increasing extensor muscle tonus in the …