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Journal of Experimental Biology 59,725-738 (1973)
Published by Company of Biologists 1973

A Simple Technique for Monitoring the Synaptic Actions of Pharmacological Agents

J. J. CALLEC ¹ and D. B. SATTELLE ²

¹ Laboratoire de Physiologie Animale, U.E.R. Sciences Biologiques, Rennes Beaulieu, France
² A.R.C. Unit of Invertebrate Chemistry and Physiology, Department of Zoology, Downing Street, Cambridge

1. A simple electrophysiological method for the pharmacological investigation of synaptic transmission in insects is described.

2. By means of this technique synaptic potentials and ganglionic polarization can be recorded from the sixth abdominal ganglion of Periplaneta americana L. for long periods.

3. In the absence of stimulation, spontaneous excitatory (EPSP) and inhibitory (IPSP) postsynaptic potentials can be recorded. The mechanical stimulation of cercal receptors demonstrates the summation of EPSPs leading to spike generation.

4. Electrical stimulation of the cercal nerves (X, XI) enables the recording of a monosynaptic EPSP (XI) and a bisynaptic IPSP (X).

5. The action of acetylcholine on synaptic transmission, including a dose-response curve, is described.

6. The potential of this technique as a tool in pharmacological research is discussed.

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