Behavioural influences on the stability of points with optogenetic stimulation of motor cortices

Abstract

This thesis investigates the stability of points on the motor cortex of the mouse produced using optogenetic stimulation. Mice were implanted with fiber optic probes in four areas of the motor cortex and one in a non-motor area for control. They received stimulation of various frequency and duration as they engaged in six different voluntary and automatic behaviour. Control stimulation was also administered via a separate optic probe located on the side of the apparatus. The general findings are that the outcome of the stimulation depends on the ongoing behaviour of the mouse at the time of stimulation. Thus, stimulation effects are unstable, and behaviour is a contributing factor.