[Intraneuronal information processing. Delay in the changes in membrane potential after administration of cyclic...

Depolarization of the neuron membrane induced by cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) was shown both by ionophoresis and by injection with pressure. Swelling of the neuron during the injection of various substances with pressure causes membrane depolarization which is similar to that induced by cAMP. When applying pressure the cAMP effect can be distinguished by introducing small volumes of concentrated solutions. Similarity between the effects of cAMP and mechanical stimulation of the neuron suggests that in both cases the effect involves action of the electromechanical system consisting of microskeleton and micromuscles which regulate permeability of molecular channels. The delay of the effect after the moment of cAMP and cGMP introduction is small, which enables a conclusion concerning their direct interaction with the cytoskeleton.