Transcortical streaming potentials are generated by circulatory pressure gradients in living canine tibia

Electrical potentials associated with the pulse pressure have been observed in a canine tibia model in vivo. As the medullary pressure rises during pulsing, the periosteal bone surface becomes positive with respect to the endosteal surface. This pattern is consistent with streaming potentials generated by outward flow of fluid through bone with a negatively charged matrix (negative zeta potential). Both the medullary pressure and electric potential oscillations are halted by occlusion of the femoral artery. Furthermore, systemic administration of epinephrine decreases the amplitude of the medullary pressure and the electric potential by the same fraction. Streaming potentials generated by blood flow are distinct from those generated by mechanical deformation and may have additional significance in relation to fracture healing and/or etiology of osteoporosis.