Cortical localization of symbolic processes in the rat.

Abstract

Rate were required to run over an elevated runway, the external cues to which could be jumbled, and turn at the 4th of a series of 6 runways. After prelim. training on this problem, one group of 10 animals was operated unilaterally (mostly in anterior region of coterx), retested, and then operated on the other side and retested; while a 2d group was trained, bilaterally operated (mostly in parietal regions), and re-tested. Av. destruction or methods of destruction are not indicated. It is concluded that the evidence "supports the view that there are functional areas in the rat which correspond to the frontal lobes in primates and that these functional areas may play a role in mediating symbolic processes much as frontal lobes appear to do in primates.".