Effects of static tilt about the roll axis on horizontal and vertical optokinetic nystagmus and optokinetic after-nystagmus in humans

Exp Brain Res. 1991;84(2):335-41. doi: 10.1007/BF00231454.

Abstract

Horizontal and vertical OKN and OKAN were recorded in four conditions using the EOG technique. Instructions to subjects were aimed at obtaining a "look" type OKN. Two optokinetic stimulators, a stationary sphere and a binocular portable model, were compared with the subject in the upright condition. Three posture orientations, upright, 90 degree roll (horizontal), and upside-down, were then compared using the portable stimulator to determine the effect of roll-axis tilt on OKN at three velocities and on OKAN. Vertical OKN asymmetry was found to increase in the 90 degree roll position and to tend toward a reversal in the upside-down position. The time constant of vertical OKAN with slow phase up increased in both the 90 degree roll and upside-down positions. And finally, cross-coupled vertical eye movements during and after horizontal OKN were clearly observed. These results confirm the data obtained in monkeys, and are in accordance with the hypothesis of a three-dimensional organization of the velocity storage mechanism.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Electrooculography
  • Eye Movements*
  • Humans
  • Nystagmus, Physiologic*
  • Posture*
  • Visual Fields