Ionic dependence and transmission of epidermal action potentials in a newt embryo

The ionic dependency and transmission of epidermal action potentials have been examined from tailbud to hatching stages of newt embryos. Previously we have reported that the epidermal action potential is composed of a fast- and slow-action component; only the slow-action component, however, is transmitted to other cells. We address in this report the mechanism by which these responses are mediated. The slow-action potential is not produced in Na+-free saline, tricaine saline, or following the application of TTX, and thus appears to be Na+ dependent. The fast-action potential on the other hand is blocked by application of Co2+ and verapamil saline and thus appears to be Ca2+ dependent. The slow-action potentials appear to be chemically transmitted since they are transmitted even to those cells which are electrically uncoupled at low intracellular pH (NaHCO3 + HCl, pH 6.2). Furthermore 1 microM curare and atropine are inhibitory to transmission of the slow potential. Epidermal cells of the newt embryo are sensitive to acetylcholine (ACh) applied by hydrostatic ejection through a micropipet. The latter observation further suggests that propagation of the slow-action potential is, in part, a chemical event.