Successful interocular transfer of visual pattern discriminations in split-chiasm cats with section of the intertectal and posterior commissures

Interocular transfer of visual pattern discriminations is absent in split-chiasm cats with a section of cortical commissures and one might conclude that the exchange of visual information necessary for interhemispheric transfer of such discriminations is carried out exclusively at a cortical level. However, section of the cortical commissures influences the activity of the superior colliculus, and the absence of interhemispheric transfer of pattern discriminations following commissurotomy may reflect cortical as well as subcortical modifications. In an attempt to test this possibility sections of the posterior, intertectal and habenular commissures were made in split chiasm cats and interocular transfer was tested and found to be intact. Thus these pathways for across-the-midline transfer of information are not essential in interocular transfer. © 1978.