SINGLE-CELL RESPONSES OF THE NUCLEUS OF THE TRANSPEDUNCULAR TRACT IN RABBIT TO MONOCHROMATIC LIGHT ON THE RETINA

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Abstract
Recordings were made from single cells of this nucleus (NTPT) of responses to monochromatic light on the retina. Seven non-albino, hybrid animals were studied under photopic conditions (both urethane and encephale isole preparations). Cells of the NTPT were found maximally responsive to two wavelengths, 461 [plus or minus] 3.7 m[mu] and 501 [plus or minus] 3.9 m[mu]. Rarely did a cell respond to wavelengths longer than 600 m[mu]. Two maxima were found in the latency spectrum of the nucleus, as was the case for the main visual pathway (lateral geniculate nucleus), suggesting a retinal origin for the distribution. About half of the NTPT cells displayed regular spontaneous background activity, facilitated or inhibited by monochromatic light. Recording sites were verified histologically.