Influence of centrifugal pathways on unit activity in the cochlear nucleus.

Abstract

Current stimulation of the S-segment of the superior olive (cat) results in facilitation of the activity of many units in the ipsilateral ventral cochlear nucleus, and in some cases, in a lowering of their threshold to sound stimuli. This effect is blocked by the local application of cholinergic blocking agents to the cochlear nucleus neuron. Stimulation of the nuclei of the lateral lemniscus influences unit activity in both the dorsal and ventral cochlear nuclei of the opposite side. It may produce either inhibition or facilitation, according to the relative positions of the stimulating and recording electrodes.