Activity in monkey substantia nigra neurons related to a simple learned movement

Single cell activity was recorded in the pars compacta (SNc) and pars reticulata (SNr) of the substantia nigra (SN) in 4 unanesthetized Macaca fascicularis to determine the motor role of the nucleus. Animals were trained to perform a simple task that involved moving a lever by elbow flexion-extensions, in the horizontal plane using the hand contralateral to the recording site. Two monkeys learnt to execute the task on both sides. Electromyograms (EMG) of limb muscles were recorded simultaneously with SN neurons. Discharge rate modulation related to specific movement phases was present in 35% of the neurons. A significant positive correlation of the discharge rate with movement velocity and amplitude was found in SNc and SNr neurons. Some SNr cells discharged in anticipation of the EMG, suggesting a participation of the nucleus in the preparation of movement. The activity of SNr neurons was also related to movement of the left and right upper limb. In conclusion, the SN seems to play an important role in the control of specific motor mechanisms, probably modulating movement velocity, amplitude and direction, with little participation of somatosensory feedback. The involvement of the SNr in the coordination of bilateral arm activity is discussed.