Distribution of visual input to the vestibular nuclei

Abstract

The electrical activity of individual vestibular nuclear neurons was recorded in anesthetized and paralyzed cats and their responses to photic stimulation of the retina were studied. The visual input produced various types of unit responses. The cells of the superior vestibular nucleus showed a predominant excitatory response, the neurons of the medial vestibular nucleus displayed different combinations of excitatory and inhibitory effects, while those of the descending vestibular nucleus responded with excitation followed by inhibition. Photic stimulation of the retina elicited responses of vestibular nuclei with different latencies. The superior and medial vestibular nuclei showed shorter latencies. It is concluded tht the visual input may reach the vestibular complex thus participating in the reflex control of the ocular motoneurons.