Direction-specific optokinetic modulation of monosynaptic hind limb reflexes in cats

The excitability of hindlimb extensor and flexor motoneurons is tonically modulated by animal tilt and a large visual stimulus rotating about the animal's line of sight. This direction-specific modulation is opposite for extensor and flexor motoneurons and opposite for optokinetic and vestibular stimuli, thus combining to a functionally significant pattern of postural reflexes.