Synaptic action of vestibular nerve afferents on reticular neurons of the isolated medulla oblongata of the goldfish

Excitatory post-synaptic potentials (EPSPs) were evoked in reticular neurons of isolated goldfish brian stem by stimulation of the ipsilateral vestibular nerve or by direct intra-axonal activation of single vestibular fibres. Composite EPSPs displayed usually two components. Ca2+-deficient, Mn2+-containing solution abolished the delayed chemical components of EPSPs, but did not affect the short latency responses suggesting dual (electrical-chemical) mode of transmission between some vestibular afferents and reticular neurons.