[Induction of plastic changes in the excitability of neuronal electrogenic membranes during habituation]

Habituation of the postsynaptic response of a turtle cortical neurone to an orthodromic stimulus, induces enhanced excitability of the electro-excitable membrane which does not generate action potentials during habituation. Single excitation of the electro-excitable membrane by intracellular stimulation during this period, facilitates transmitter sensitivity of the chemoreceptor membrane. Habituation of the action potential to the intracellular electrical stimulus induces enhanced sensitivity of the chemoreceptor membrane. Single excitation of the chemoreceptor membrane during this period results in enhanced excitability of the electro-excitable membrane. Plastic changes during habituation involve the whole neurone membrane, although the monotonous stimulus activates only its local area.