The effect of injections of dopaminergic agonists into the caudate nucleus on the electrocorticogram of the rat

Electrocortical activity was recorded in encehale isole rats during injection of various dopaminergic compounds into the caudate nucleus. Slow waves and spindles were observed following injection of compounds with different mechanisms of action in stimulating the dopamine receptor. Some arylalkylamine analogues also induced similar electrocortical changes, whereas others were inactive. The possible dopamine agonist activities of these compounds are discussed. The results support an involvement of dopamine in the production of electrocortical slow waves and spindles.