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NEUROID TRANSMISSION IN CILIATED EPITHELIUM.
1Zoological Laboratory, Harvard University, Cambridge.
The Journal of General Physiology
|October 30, 2009
Summary
Ciliated tissues in clam gills show heat-induced conduction, with warmth increasing adjacent cilia beat rates up to 11 mm. Cold, however, does not transmit beyond direct application areas.
Area of Science:
- Cellular Biology
- Physiology
- Zoology
Background:
- Primitive conduction mechanisms regulating ciliary beat rates exist in various ciliated tissues.
- Previous studies by Kraft, Engelmann, and Parker noted conduction in frog pharynx and sponge tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate conduction in the ciliated gill tissue of the clam Unio.
- To observe the effects of temperature changes on ciliary beat rates in adjacent tissues.
Main Methods:
- Local application of temperature changes (warmth and cold) to clam gill tissue.
- Observation of ciliary beat rates in directly stimulated and adjacent areas.
Main Results:
- Warmth applied locally increased the ciliary beat rate in adjacent gill tissue up to 9-11 mm laterally.
- Low temperatures did not induce observable effects beyond the directly applied region.
- Transmission of warmth effects occurred in all directions from the point of stimulation.
Conclusions:
- Clam gill cilia exhibit temperature-dependent conduction, with warmth being transmissible.
- The findings suggest a potential role for action currents in coordinating ciliary activity, aligning with Lillie's hypothesis but differing from some of Kraft's observations.
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