FUNCTIONAL ANATOMY OF BRACHIUM PONTIS

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
The functional anatomy of the brachium pontis was experimentally studied in monkeys (two mangabeys, one Java macaque) by surgically severing one or both brachia pontis. The animals were first trained in various psychobiological tests (problem boxes) designed to utilize all nerve tracts which might possibly make connections through the brachium pontis. Determinations of cerebellar functions, posture, gait, equilibrium, muscle tone, and personality characteristics were also included. The lesions and the resultant degenerations were verified histologically. No deficits in learned behavior appeared following section of the brachia pontis. No symptoms of a classical cerebellar nature resulted. Spiralling, circus movements, and curvature of the head and spine to the side of the lesion, nystagmus, dysmetria, some hypotonia, and incoordination of gait occurred as transient symptoms following each operation. In bilaterally operated animals a progressive disturbance of gait and equilibrium consistently became manifest, and there was diminution of hand-eye coordination. These bilaterally operated animals demonstrated a progressive sluggishness.

This publication has 6 references indexed in Scilit: