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Effects of LSD on the spontaneous and evoked activity of retinal and geniculate ganglion cells

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Summary

The effect of LSD 25 (i. v. injection) on the spontaneous and evoked activity of the visual system was investigated in cats. 50 γ/kg did not change significantly the ERG and the visual cortical evoked potential. The spontaneous discharge rate of 14 out of 21 retinal ganglion cells showed an increase which reached its maximum within 20–30 min and which could still be present 1 hour following the injection. One third of the retinal units showed a slight depression of their spontaneous dischaRge rate with about the same time course. Single units of the LGN showed about the same behaviour. The response to light stimulation was slightly increased in some units and light induced inhibition was slightly shortened. The possible mechanism of the LSD-effect on retinal ganglion cell activity is discussed.

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During the time of this research, Dr. Mouriz-Garcia held a grant from the Alexander von Humboldt Stiftung; Drs. Schmidt and Arlazoroff held grants of the Max Planck Society.

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Mouriz-Garcia, A., Schmidt, R. & Arlazoroff, A. Effects of LSD on the spontaneous and evoked activity of retinal and geniculate ganglion cells. Psychopharmacologia 15, 382–391 (1969). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00403713

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00403713

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