Effect of superficial radial nerve stimulation on the activity of nigro-striatal dopaminergic neurons in the cat: Role of cutaneous sensory input

The release of3H-dopamine (DA) continuously synthesized from3H-tyrosine was measured in the caudate nucleus (CN) and in the substantia nigra (SN) in both sides of the brain during electrical stimulation of the superficial radial nerve in cats lightly anaesthetized with halothane. Use of appropriate electrophysiologically controlled stimulation led to selective activation of low threshold afferent fibers whereas high stimulation activated all cutaneous afferents.