ACETYLCHOLINESTERASE AND NERVE CONDUCTION
Abstract
An attempt was made to determine the effects of several anticholinesterase compounds on the electrically evoked nerve and muscle action potentials of the cat. It has been shown that nerves essentially devoid of detectable enzyme are able to conduct impulses without any impairment. The characteristic effects produced by these inhibitors at the neuromuscular junction have been observed. The conclusion is reached that in motor nerve fibers there is apparently no correlation between the magnitude and amplitude of the action potential acetylcholinesterase activity as determined in homogenized nerve and histochemically. It appears than, from the data presented here, the only 'biochemical lesion' produced by organophosphorous anticholinesterase compounds and insecticides that need be of concern in therapeutic procedures are located at junctions (neuromuscular, synapses, ganglia, etc.) There are apparently no effects on intra-axonal conduction.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0634657
Entities
People
- Charles M. Towns
- Edmund Bay
- Nelson L. Adams