[Participation of the lateral geniculate body in color discrimination in cats]

Responses of the lateral geniculate units to different wave length stimuli were studied in immobilized cats. The studied units were divided into two groups. Those of the first group (44%) produce high-frequency spike discharges which are not modified when the wave length of stimulus changes. Statistically significant differences are found in the unit responses of the second group (51%) to different wave length stimuli. A possible inhibitory influence of the first group units on those of the second group is suggested. The possible significance of this influence in the colour vision is discussed.