[Monosynaptic activation of motor neurons of the nucleus of the facial nerve evoked by stimulation of midbrain structures].

Synaptic inputs of the midbrain structures to the facial nucleus motoneurons were studied in acute experiments in cats by means of intracellular recording. Stimulation of periaqueductal gray and pretectal area was found to evoke mono- and polysynaptic activation of facial motoneurons. Functional significance of the midbrain structures as an intermediate link transmitting descending signals to the facial nucleus, is discussed.