title: Axonal flip-flops and oscillators.
abstract: The strange and unpleasant sensations (paraesthesiae) or asynchronous motor-unit activation (fasciculation) that result from a period of limb ischaemia are examples of ectopic discharge in peripheral nerves. Ectopic activity also results from demyelination and is associated with serious neurological conditions, such as multiple sclerosis. A build-up of extracellular K(+) in the internode and persistent Na(+) currents are now implicated in generating the different forms of activity arising in normal and demyelinated axons.
authors.affiliation: Dept of Biology, Medawar Building, University College London, Gower Street, WC1E 6BT, London, UK.
authors.forename: M D
authors.initials: MD
authors.lastname: Baker
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001369:Axons / Q000502:physiology*; D004594:Electrophysiology; D005121:Extremities / Q000098:blood supply; D006801:Humans; D007511:Ischemia / Q000503:physiopathology; D008959:Models, Neurological; D009991:Oscillometry; D010292:Paresthesia / Q000503:physiopathology