MECHANISMS OF SUPRASPINAL ACTIONS UPON SPINAL CORD ACTIVITIES. RETICULAR INHIBITORY MECHANISMS ON ALPHA-EXTENSOR MOTONEURONS

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Abstract
The mechanism by which reticular stimulation capable of melting the decerebrate rigidity inhibits the monosynaptic extensor reflex in the absence of the gamma-loop were studied in cat. It was shown that this inhibitory mechanism is postsynaptic. The excitability of the alpha-extensor motoneurons, as tested by direct stimulation, is reduced, and a sustained hyperpolarization is induced by reticular stimulation which is due to a sustained synaptic inhibitory impingement. The ionic mechanisms of this inhibition are similar to those of "direct" inhibition.