[Characteristics and origin of rotatory movements induced by electrical stimulation of the caudate nucleus in cats]

High--frequency stimulation of the caudate nucleus in cats elicits three types of responses: contralateral turning of the head or rotatory psychomotor excitation with contralateral rotation, and ipsilateral turning of the head and body. The latter was obtained mainly from the ventralateral portions of caudate nucleus, while the psychomotor excitation--from the dorsal portions. The rotatory movements are virtually independent of involvement of capsula interna and cortex. Slow synchronized EEG activity occurring at the moment of turning was eliminated by curarization. The caudate rotations are partially triggered by the globus pallidus, as the electrolytic lesion of the latter increases the thresholds of responses although does not completely eliminate them.