Participation of the cerebellum in the generation of learned reflex reactions of the eyelid

Available data regarding the use of the eyelid motor system as an experimen tal model for the study of neural control of spontaneous, reflex, and condi tioned motor responses are presented. The profile, kinematics, and frequenc y-domain properties of the different types of eyelid response are described . The firing properties of the three types of motoneuron involved in eyelid responses are also explained. Finally, the putative role of cerebellar cor tex and nuclei in the genesis and control of reflex and learned eyelid move ments are discussed in relation with recent available data in alert behavin g cats.