Functional properties of neurones in the parietal retroinsular cortex in awake monkey

Abstract

The parietal retroinsular cortex of 3, awake, behaving monkeys [Macaca speciosa] was investigated using transdural microelectrode recording technique. All 73 cells identified responded to somatosensory stimuli. Most of the neurones (51) were activated by compression of the skin in an on, off or on-off fashion; these cells were unresponsive to light touching or stroking of the skin. The rest of the cells responded to light touching, rotation of a joint or palpation of a muscle belly. All body parts were represented in this area. Of the cells 30% responded to stimulation of both sides of the body. The parietal retroinsular cortex apparently participates in the analysis of skin compression. This information is used, i.e., in the control of manipulative movements and in discrimination of supported wt. Ablation of the area may impair these functions.