[The characteristics of the spatial-temporal organization of the cortical potentials in the free-moving rabbit during training (a comparison of the stages in the generalization and specialization of the conditioned-reflex response)]

Abstract

Analysis of successive topograms was applied to investigation of peculiarities of the spatio-temporal organization of cortical potentials of a rabbit at different stages of conditioning. Qualitative distinctions were shown between the stages in the character of regulation of the spatial synchronization (SS) related to variations in cortico-subcortical relations. Higher SS level at the stage of generalization changed for more complicated pattern of the spatio-temporal organization of cortical potentials. These complex spatio-temporal characteristics favoured facilitation of excitation spreading along the paths which provide specialization of the conditioned response under the action of the conditioned stimulus. Obtained results were correlated to specific membrane and synaptic modifications in the course of conditioning. The findings extend the notions of the cellular mechanisms which determine the features of the cortical SS at the stages of generalization and specialization of the conditioned reflex.