Inhibition of the nociceptive response of the parafascicular nucleus, due to microwave irradiation on spinal cord in rabbits

Abstract

The parafascicular nucleus plays an important role in the harmonization process of the pain sensation. The experiment described below consists in using electric impulses to stimulate the superficial peroneal nerve of rabbits and create a model for a pain sensation. With the help of a microelectrode inserted in the brain, the nociceptive response of the parafascicular nuclei can be measured. A microwave applicator is introduced next to the spinal cord in order to study the effect of the microwave radition on the central nervous system in an animal in-vivo. It also enables us to investigate the presence or absence of the non-thermic effect of microwaves. The experimental procedure is controlled by the computer. It draws out a new subject for applying microwaves in the biomedical domain: studies of the inhibition influence of the microwaves irradiation on the nervous system, and of the obstructive interference of the electromagntic field on the nociceptive nervous impulse, in order to use the microwaves for pain relief.