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Decerebrate rigidity in animals.

R A Davis, L Davis

    Neurosurgery
    |July 1, 1981
    PubMed
    Summary
    This summary is machine-generated.

    Decerebrate rigidity (DR) in animals results from spinal neuron disinhibition, affecting posture and standing. Two types, intercollicular and anemic, reveal distinct neurophysiological mechanisms influencing motor control.

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    Area of Science:

    • Neuroscience
    • Physiology
    • Animal Behavior

    Background:

    • Decerebrate rigidity (DR) arises from supraspinal inhibition loss in spinal neurons.
    • It mimics reflex standing, involving tonic neck and labyrinthine reflexes.
    • Understanding DR is crucial for Sherrington's integrative action concept.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To elucidate the neurophysiological mechanisms underlying decerebrate rigidity in animals.
    • To differentiate the two primary types of decerebrate rigidity and their anatomical bases.

    Main Methods:

    • Investigated decerebrate rigidity through intercollicular and anemic decerebration models in animals.
    • Analyzed the roles of the reticular formation, cerebellum, vestibular complex, spinal cord, and muscle spindle system.

    Related Experiment Videos

  • Examined the effects of posterior root section on different DR types.

    • Main Results:

    • Intercollicular DR involves gamma motoneuron facilitation, abolished by posterior root section.
    • Anemic DR shows excessive extensor rigidity due to alpha motoneuron discharge, independent of posterior root section.
    • Both types highlight the interplay of supraspinal centers and spinal reflexes in posture.

    Conclusions:

    • Decerebrate rigidity provides insights into posture and standing mechanisms.
    • Two distinct forms of DR (gamma and alpha animal) have different neurophysiological underpinnings.
    • Caution is advised when extrapolating animal findings on DR to human physiology.