Self-generated saccades do not modify the gain of adapted reactive saccades

The gain of reactive saccades was manipulated in 17 subjects using a target-jump paradigm. Following adaptation three sub-groups were formed: (1) rest 15 min in the dark, eyes closed; (2) perform self-generated saccades for 15 min; (3) perform reactive saccades for 15 min. The series of saccades were the same in groups 2 and 3 (amplitude, sequence), except that group 3 performed fewer saccades (same number as the lowest number of saccades performed by one subject in group 2). Neither the rest period nor the series of self-generated saccades affected the adapted gain. The series of reactive saccades generated, by contrast, quick de-adaptation. These results support the conclusion that the gain of self-generated and reactive saccades is independently controlled.