Sensitization of Melanophores by Nerve Cutting

Abstract

Denervation of melanophores in the catfish Ameiurus nebulosus will sensitize these color cells to appropriate strengths of adrenaline (0.002 mg. of adrenaline per 100 g. fish). This result supports Smith''s conclusion concerning the sensitization of the melanophores in the tautog. Denervated catfish were not found to be sensitized to acetylcholine. Catfish melanophores were sensitized by nerve cutting to intermedine whose strength of injection was 2 pituitary glands to half a gland per fish. These were not sensitized to weaker ex- tracts. No general explanation was found for effector sensi-tization by nerve cutting.