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Which afferents induce and transmit dorsal root reflex in rats?
Neuroscience Letters
|July 9, 1998
Summary
The dorsal root reflex (DRR) is modulated by supraspinal structures. Spinalization increased DRR firing frequency, suggesting its role in regulating sensory input.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Physiology
Background:
- The dorsal root reflex (DRR) is a spinal reflex.
- Its role in sensory modulation is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the inputs and properties of the dorsal root reflex (DRR).
- To examine the effect of spinalization on DRR activity.
Main Methods:
- Recording DRR in single fibers from the severed L5 dorsal root central stump in anesthetized rats.
- Stimulating the sciatic nerve to evoke DRRs.
- Performing spinalization at T13.
Main Results:
- Group II afferents were the primary input for inducing DRRs.
- DRRs were transmitted via fibers with conduction velocities below 20 m/s and a central delay of 3-5 ms.
- Spinalization (T13) increased spontaneous and evoked DRR firing frequency two to fourfold.
Conclusions:
- The dorsal root reflex (DRR) is significantly influenced by supraspinal structures.
- DRRs play a role in modulating sensory afferent input.