ATP suppresses activity in slowly adapting but not rapidly adapting mechanoreceptors in toad skin.
To test the possible role of ATP in transducing or modulating touch sensation, an isolated skin-nerve preparation from the toad, Bufo marinus, perfused on the inner side, was used to examine the effects of ATP on slowly adapting (SA) and rapidly adapting (RA) mechanoreceptors, identified by ramp and hold indentation of the skin. ATP (1-50 mM) did not generate impulse activity in either SA or RA mechanoreceptors nor increase their responses to mechanical stimulation. Instead, ATP (> or =5 mM) reversibly and selectively suppressed impulse discharge from SA mechanoreceptors. Our results indicate that while ATP may modulate the responses of specific touch receptors, it is not involved in transducing touch into nerve impulses.
Fallon
James B
JB
Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
Maroto
Rosario
R
Hamill
Owen P
OP
Proske
Uwe
U
D000200:Action Potentials / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D000255:Adenosine Triphosphate / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000502:physiology; D000818:Animals; D002024:Bufo marinus; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D008465:Mechanoreceptors / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000502:physiology; D012879:Skin Physiological Phenomena / Q000187:drug effects*
D000255:Adenosine Triphosphate