Fig. 2
Deafferentation of the sciatic nerve results in prompt vasodilatation in the ipsilateral hind foot that does not further increase after transection of the nerve. a Experimental schedule. b, c Bar charts showing sensory and motor function 1.5 h after selective resection of L3–L6 dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) of the left side. The contralateral side served as an internal control. d Representative perfusion images of the hind feet before (baseline), 10 min after DRG resection (deafferentation), and after transection of the deafferentated sciatic nerve 2 h after DRG resection. Arrows indicate the side ipsilateral to surgery. e Bar chart with paired scattered dots showing the change of blood perfusion in the foot sequentially after DRG resection and nerve transection that followed. Data are expressed as mean ± SEM (n = 6 rats) and analyzed with repeated measures (mixed model) ANOVA followed by Bonferroni’s multiple comparison test (e). n.s. non-significant