Behavioral correlates of the thalamic gustatory area

Fine wire electrodes were guided into the vicinity of the thalamic gustatory area by recording multi-unit responses to thermal and gustatory stimulation of the tongue. The electrodes were permanently implanted and retested with similar stimuli approximately one month postoperatively. After the electrophysiological test, each electrode was tested for self-stimulation, escape and evoked behavior. Intracranial electrical stimulation more frequently elicited mouth movements from electrodes which recorded responses to tongue stimulation, than those which did not. Only a small proportion of the electrodes which recorded responses to cold water, or to cold water and NaCl were aversive when tested for escape behavior. All the electrodes responding only to NaCl were aversive. None of the positively reinforcing electrodes responded to tongue stimuli.