[Reactions of neurons of an isolated superfused segment of spinal cord in the immature rat to nociceptive stimulation of an vessel-perfused extremity].

An in vitro preparation for testing nociceptive neuron responses in 2-3 weeks old rats is described. The preparation consists of isolated superfused spinal segment and intravascularly perfused hind limb connected through the dorsal root. Mechanical (prick, pinch) or chemical (intravascular injection of the algogenic substance) nociceptive stimulation of the hind limb induced an increase in discharge frequency of single neurons.