[Topographic mapping of slow cortical response in guinea pigs]

Auditory slow cortical responses (SCR) were studied in 10 awake guinea pigs using topographic mapping techniques. Fourteen electrodes were installed through the guinea pig skull and fixed with dental cement. Auditory SCRs were recorded via 13 leads and brain maps were realized on a concerto system. The results showed that SCRs were relatively stable at the temporal lobe, with a stable positivity (31.25-37.50 ms TP) followed by a negativity (62.50-72.50 ms TN). Variability was seen at other leads. The foci of maximum positivity and negativity were seen at the temporal cortex. The results suggest that there are multiple contributions to SCRs which partially overlap in time, and that auditory cortex contribute significantly more than other sources. SCRs also received auditory information in parallel from the brainstem. The focus of AM-evoked SCRs was seen located at temporal lobe while that of FM-evoked SCRs at temporal and frontal lobes. It suggests that intensity analysis is essentially completed at the temporal cortex whereas precise frequency discrimination relies on function of higher integrating centers.