Suppression of PGO waves in the kitten: anatomical effects on the lateral geniculate nucleus

Bilateral mesencephalic electrolytic lesions were performed in 2-week-old kittens, in order to suppress the ascending ponto-geniculo-occipital activity. The subsequent anatomical development of the lateral geniculate nucleus was analyzed. A significant maturational deficit was evidenced in 5-week-old experimental kittens as compared to age-paired controls. It is concluded that a lesion in the X area impairs the maturation of CNS. The relationship between this area (the phasic components of paradoxical sleep) and the maturation of CNS are still to be demonstrated.