A computer program for the study of synaptic transmission at the neuromuscular junction

The study of synaptic biopotentials at the neuromuscular junction has proven to be an invaluable tool in understanding the pre- and post-synaptic mechanisms underlying chemical synaptic transmission and exploring the pathogenesis of neuromuscular disorders. Computer technology has become an important part of these experiments as it increases accuracy and automates the process, allowing more data to be collected and quantitatively analysed. This paper presents a computer program for IBM PC compatible computers capable of recording and analysing the spontaneously occurring miniature end-plate potentials (MEPPs), neurally evoked end-plate potentials (EPPs) and muscle fiber action potentials (APs). The program performs its basic analysis immediately following the sampling of biopotentials from a muscle fiber, thus providing the user with immediate feedback on the status of the experiment; 45 parameters of neuromuscular transmission are computed on-line and displayed on the monitor along with the signal-averaged waveforms. After a series of fibers has been recorded, the program will compile the data into summary tables. The program is designed to provide an experimenter with an easy-to-use, comprehensive method of performing electrophysiological measurements and analysis at the neuromuscular junction.