Some neural mechanisms in the inferior colliculus of the cat which may be relevant to localization of a sound source.

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Abstract
Neurons of low best frequency whose response to binaurally presented tones is a function of in -teraural time relationship of the stimuli. For any effective frequency spike-counts are produced which are a periodic function of interaural time differences; the period is equal to that of the stimulating tone. Evidence suggest that there may be only 1 interaural time relation between stimuli specific for a given unit - termed its characteristic delay - which causes similar responses to all frequencies which activate the cell. Neurons sensitive to small interaural intensity differences. Such neurons may have any best frequency. They are activated by stimuli to 1 ear but binaural stimulation greatly reduces or abolishes the response. The magnitude of the effect may be sensitive function of the intensity differential between the ears. Neurons responding to binaural stimuli with a transient inhibitory response. Evidence as to some mechanisms which make such responses possible is presented. Significance of the findings for sound source localization is discussed.