THE MECHANISM OF THE ARSENITE ACTION ON MEDULLATED NERVE

Abstract

While O activation [studied in frog nerves] is little affected by arsenite, substrate activation is considerably inhibited. The degree of inhibition shows marked seasonal variation, as does the arsenite block of the action potential. Cysteine and glutathione exert a protective action against arsenite as regards extinction of the action potential but not against inhibition of respiration. The induction period of the arsenite effect is discussed in terms of the catalytic systems present.