Changes in latency of evoked potentials after caudate nucleus stimulation.

The activation of the head of the caudate nucleus in cats which have undergone transection of the spinal cord at C1 produces inhibition of evoked potentials in the motor area (pre-cruciate region) and also reduces the peak latency of the negative slow wave. The results of decreased latency are discussed with reference to variations in intensity of the stimulation activating the motor cortex. The role played by the caudate nucleus in the control of the motor system is emphasized.