The Effect of Modification of Baroreceptor Activity on Reaction Time

Abstract

ABSTRACT The Laceys' hypothesis that baroreceptor stimulation has a direct effect on performance was tested by experimental manipulation of baroreceptor activity while subjects performed reaction time tests. Baroreceptor activity was altered by varying external cervical pressure and hence carotid sinus transmural pressure. The physiological effects of the baroreflex on heart rate and pulse transit time (a measure which generally correlates well with blood pressure) were seen both when baroreceptor stimulation was increased and when it was decreased. However, no difference in reaction time was found between the two conditions, therefore failing to support the Laceys' hypothesis.