Qualitative model of otolith-ocular asymmetry in vertical eccentric rotation experiments

Today, investigation of the vestibulo-ocular reactions is a mainstream method of studying the vestibular asymmetry. Analysis of experimental data requires a model of otolith-ocular interaction. The proposed model is based on the literary data concerning measurements of ocular counter-rotation (OCR) and luminous line rotation (LLR) in experiments with eccentric rotation carried out by Wetzig et al. [Acta Astronaut. 21 (1990) 519-525]. The method utilizes a number of simplifications and suppositions, the basic of which is linearity of all stages of transformation of mechanical stimulus with the exception of the proportionality of neural response to acceleration. It was demonstrated that the model qualitatively imitates the behavior of OCR and LLR in response to centrifugal acceleration of utricular otoliths and permits analysis of the role of various parameters of the otolith-ocular interaction. Comparison of modeling and experimental dependences of OCR and LLR on acceleration can help understand otolithic asymmetry.