Possible modulating influence of frontal cortex on nigro‐striatal function

Abstract

1 After administration of (+)-amphetamine, rats with unilateral ablations of the frontal cortex rotated either ipsilaterally or contralaterally as a function of time after surgery. 2 At early postoperative intervals (1–7 days), rotation was towards the side of the lesion. 3 At later times (15–30 days), rotation was towards the intact side. 4 Repeated testing with amphetamine appeared to slow the time-course of changes in rotational behaviour. 5 These results suggest that a dopaminergic nigro-striatal system is modulated by the frontal cortex and that unilateral removal of the latter produces a denervation supersensitivity of the former.