Abstract
Small, high-impedance neurons with short processes, similar to those found in the soil nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, are predicted to transmit electrical signals by passive propagation. However, we have found that certain neurons in C. elegans fire regenerative action potentials. These neurons resembled Schmitt triggers, as their potential state appears to be bistable. Transitions between up and down states could be triggered by application of the neurotransmitter glutamate or brief current pulses.
Publication types
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Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
MeSH terms
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Action Potentials / drug effects
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Action Potentials / genetics
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Action Potentials / physiology*
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Animals
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Animals, Genetically Modified
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Caenorhabditis elegans / physiology*
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Caenorhabditis elegans Proteins / genetics
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Caenorhabditis elegans Proteins / metabolism
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Calcium / metabolism
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Electric Stimulation
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Feedback / physiology
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Glutamic Acid / metabolism
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Glutamic Acid / pharmacology
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Green Fluorescent Proteins / genetics
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Ion Channels / genetics
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Ion Channels / metabolism
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Ions / metabolism
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Neural Conduction / drug effects
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Neural Conduction / physiology*
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Neurons / classification*
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Neurons / drug effects
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Neurons / physiology*
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Patch-Clamp Techniques
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Receptors, AMPA / genetics
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Receptors, AMPA / metabolism
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Sodium / metabolism
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Stimulation, Chemical
Substances
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Caenorhabditis elegans Proteins
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Ion Channels
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Ions
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Receptors, AMPA
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glr-1 protein, C elegans
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Green Fluorescent Proteins
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Glutamic Acid
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Sodium
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Calcium