Response of Decerebrate Piglets Dialysed with Muscimol to Hypercapnic Challenge

Abstract

The pathogenesis of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is hitherto poorly understood. It is, however, often associated with developmental abnormalities in the brainstem of victims. This study attempted to define the extent of compromise in central chemo sensation and response to hypercapnic challenge in piglets using an inhibitory neurotransmitter, GABA that is commonly found in the brainstem. The results showed a reduction in the ventilatory output indices of the animals. The results suggest a further mechanism by which central abnormalities might underlie reduced respiratory control as occurs in sudden infant syndrome.