Comparative Susceptibility to Alcohol of the Cortical Area and Midbrain Reticular Formation of the Cat

Abstract

The comparative effects of 1 gm./kg. alcohol on the primary somatosensory cortex, the association area, and the midbrain reticular formation were studied in cats. Responses evoked on stimulation of the radial and sciatic nerves were recorded. Alcohol exerted a depressive action at the dose used. The association area was more sensitive to the depressant action of alcohol than was the reticular formation. The primary somatosensory cortex was less sensitive than the reticular formation.