The measurement of receptive field properties of neurones in the visual cortex of the conscious, mobile cat.
We have assessed the accuracy, reliability and ease of use of a technique for determining the receptive field properties of cells in the visual cortex of the conscious, unrestrained cat. Our tests have provided the following results: (1) Minimal behavioural training is necessary; it is often possible to train an animal in only two sessions. (2) A surprising degree of optical stability can be achieved. Measurements of receptive field properties are consequently reliable and repeatable. (3) We are not certain of the exact limits of accuracy which can be achieved, but we usually determine orientation specificity +/- 5 degrees, and measure receptive field positions +/- 1.5 degrees.
D000818:Animals; D002415:Cats; D003243:Consciousness; D004594:Electrophysiology / Q000379:methods*; D009043:Motor Activity; D009474:Neurons / Q000502:physiology*; D014793:Visual Cortex / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology*; D014794:Visual Fields