Single Shock Conduction Pathways from the Preoptic Shivering Suppression Center. ∗

Conclusion

There is a descending conduction pathway from the shivering suppression “center” in the diencephalon extending caud-ally through the medulla. Electrical stimulation along this pathway suppresses shivering. One interpretation of these results might be that central control of shivering is accomplished over this route. Instead of acting on the site of origin of the shivering impulses (presumably the posterior hypothalamus), the inhibitory influence may be exerted at lower motor centers, perhaps at the ventral horn outflow, although the conduction pathway in the cord has not been investigated. Direct suppression of the ventral horn cells innervating-particular muscle groups would be a means; of obtaining the graded response that is characteristic of the shivering process.