Vestibular, olfactory, and vibratory responses of nucleus basalis prosencephali neurons in pigeons

Neurosci Res. 1987 Jun;4(5):376-84. doi: 10.1016/0168-0102(87)90003-4.

Abstract

Evoked multiple unit responses were recorded through chronically implanted electrodes from the nucleus basalis prosencephali of the pigeon (Columba livia) upon vibratory stimulation of the beak-tip and airborne auditory stimulation, thus confirming earlier anatomical and physiological findings. Electrical stimulation of the olfactory nerve led to similar short latency responses. A specific directional sensitivity to rotatory vestibular stimulation was observed. Pitch motions of the head in the downward direction evoked the most pronounced multi-unit responses. These results support the suggestion that the nucleus basalis prosencephali is a sensorimotor coordinator of the pigeon's pecking/feeding behaviour.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acoustic Stimulation
  • Action Potentials
  • Animals
  • Basal Ganglia / physiology*
  • Columbidae / physiology*
  • Electric Stimulation
  • Olfactory Nerve / physiology*
  • Olfactory Pathways / physiology
  • Vestibule, Labyrinth / physiology*
  • Vibration*