Midbrain raphe neurons: Spontaneous activity and response to light

Sarah S. Mosko, Barry L. Jacobs

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

63 Scopus citations

Abstract

A quantitative computer analysis was made of the spontaneous activity of 46 midbrain raphe units in the anesthetized rat. These units are characterized by a slow and rhythmic discharge rate which remains stable over time. Cells in the dorsal raphe, median raphe and brachium conjunctivum did not differ in this respect. A subpopulation of cells in the dorsal raphe exhibited regular, periodic oscillations in discharge rate. Response of raphe units to light flashes and light and dark conditions was also studied. Of 44 units tested, there was a tendency toward higher rates of discharge in the light. Effects of light flashes were examined in 34 units. Raphe cells were typically unresponsive to light flashes.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)589-593
Number of pages5
JournalPhysiology and Behavior
Volume13
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 1974

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Experimental and Cognitive Psychology
  • Behavioral Neuroscience

Keywords

  • Anesthetized rats
  • Environmental lighting
  • ISI histogram
  • Raphe neurons
  • Spontaneous activity

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