Enhancement of the bias component of downbeat nystagmus after lesions of the nodulus and uvula

Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2009 May:1164:482-5. doi: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2008.03717.x.

Abstract

In two monkeys, we recorded spontaneous eye movements before and after ablation of the cerebellar nodulus and uvula (Nod/Uv). In both monkeys, there was an increase in upward ocular drift (downbeat nystagmus [DBN]) in darkness (M1: 1.5 degrees/s pre, 3.4 degrees/s post; M2: 1.3 degrees/s pre, 7.0 degrees/s post), but not in light. There was little effect of orbital position on drift velocity. These findings suggest that the Nod/Uv may play a role in the bias component of DBN.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Macaca mulatta
  • Nystagmus, Pathologic / physiopathology*
  • Uvula / pathology*