On reversible changes in the steady state ion-conductance of the Ranvier node membrane under low frequency sound fields

The influence of sound waves on the stationary membrane conductivity of the axon membrane in myelinated nerve was investigated. Sound fields with frequencies within the auditory limit shift the transition voltage Vtr and correspondingly the threshold voltage of the action potential in polarisation direction. The results indicate that these changes of the electrical membrane behavior are due to a direct mechanical interaction between low frequency sound fields and membrane structure.