Connections between the rostral division of the reticular formation and the small intestine

Summary

Experiments were staged on dogs with electrodes chronically implanted into the rostral portion of reticular formation and various areas of the cerebral cortex. An inquiry was made into the effect produced by stimulating the rostral portion of reticular formation on the motor function of the small intestine and by stimulating the baroceptors of the small intestine on reticular EEG. Whereas moderate stimulation of reticular formation caused no significant changes in the motor function of the small intestine, strong stimulation inhibited it. Stimulation of the baroceptors of the small intestine by means of a rubber bulb, introduced into the isolated portion of the small intestine, caused changes in reticular, and later in the cortical EEG.