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Can somatosensory system generate frequency following response?
1Institute of Clinical Neurophysiology, Medical Centre Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Pflugers Archiv : European Journal of Physiology
|January 1, 1996
Summary
This study investigated if the human somatosensory system generates frequency following responses (FFR). Findings suggest it
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Auditory Neuroscience
- Somatosensory System
Background:
- The frequency following response (FFR) is a neural signal reflecting auditory system function.
- The generators of FFR are primarily located in the auditory pathway.
- The potential contribution of the somatosensory system to FFR has not been fully elucidated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if the functional characteristics of human somatosensory system structures align with frequency following response (FFR) generators.
- To investigate the properties of somatosensory evoked potentials (SsEPs) in response to repetitive stimuli.
Main Methods:
- Recorded spinal somatosensory evoked potentials (SpEPs) and somatosensory cerebral evoked potentials (SsCEPs) using epidural and skin electrodes.
- Applied trains of electrical or mechanical stimuli to elicit responses.
- Analyzed amplitude changes and attenuation rates of SpEPs and SsCEPs.
Main Results:
- A decrease in the amplitude of SpEPs and SsCEPs was observed with subsequent stimuli in a train.
- Higher stimulation rates led to attenuation of SpEPs.
- These characteristics differ from those expected of FFR generators.
Conclusions:
- The functional properties of the somatosensory system, particularly its response to repetitive stimulation, do not support its role as a primary generator of FFR.
- It is highly improbable that the somatosensory system contributes to FFR-like responses observed in individuals with profound hearing loss.