[Statistical analysis of the functional features of cat motor cortex neurons]

Recordings were made from 366 neurons situated in the motor area of m.biceps in the cortex of 6 cats trained to make instrumental placing reaction and to accept manipulation of the joints and natural cutaneous stimulation of the forelimb. From 160 neurons whose discharges changed during placing reaction performance 52 (32.5%) were demonstrated to receive an input from peripheral receptors in the forelimb. In contrast only 7 (3.4%) neurons in the group not related to the movement received such an input. From 160 neurons 31 changed discharge before movement onset, 59 after movement onset, and 70 before and during movement. Correlation between functional types of the neurons and their peripheral inputs was found.