Recurrent actions on gamma-motoneurones mediated via large and small ventral root fibres in the cat.

Effects on single lumbar gamma-motoneurones, mediated via fibres running in the ventral roots, were studied by micro-electrode recording in cats anaesthetized with chloralose. Graded electrical stimulation of ventral roots or of peripheral nerves was used. The cells were identified as gamma-motoneurones by antidromic stimulation and by measurement of their axonal conduction velocity. Some of the cells were classified as static or dynamic. The findings confirm the previously demonstrated existence of low-threshold, presumed recurrent, inhibition of both static and dynamic gamma-motoneurones. Strong evidence for the occurrence of high-threshold recurrent inhibition of gamma-motoneurones is also presented. In addition, excitatory effects on gamma-cells, also mediated via fibres in the ventral roots, are described. The low-threshold effects from ventral root fibres are attributed to recurrent alpha-collateral activity and the high-threshold effects to gamma-collateral activity. The significance of recurrent inhibition of gamma-motoneurones is discussed in relation to the 'gain regulator' concept proposed by Hultborn, Lindström & Wigström (1979).