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Journal of Experimental Biology 45,251-267 (1966)
Published by Company of Biologists 1966

Membrane Potentials in Amoeba Proteus

M. S. BINGLEY ¹

¹ R.A.F. Institute of Aviation Medicine, Farnborough, Hants

1. Amoebae can be penetrated by microelectrodes at either end. One records voltage and the other supplies alternating current.

2. Step-like increases in alternating voltage superimposed on potentials recorded by the voltage electrode when in either the pseudopod or rear region demonstrate that low potentials recorded from a pseudopod and high ones from the rear region exist across a discrete impedance barrier. The only structure so far shown to fulfil this function is the plasma membrane.

3. A resistance inserted in the earth path monitors current flowing through the system and confirms observations made when recording with single electrodes that there is a reduction of electrode resistance when the cell is entered.

4. Pronounced depolarization in the rear region is shown when the current-carrying electrode penetrates the pseudopod, but not vice versa.

5. Morphological changes associated with membrane potential reversal are illustrated.

6. Consideration is given to the role of step-like potential changes in movement.