EFFECT OF SYMPATHETIC NERVE STIMULATION UPON THE CAPILLARIES AND FIBERS OF SKELETAL MUSCLE

Abstract

The fibers and blood vessels of the sartorius muscle (cat) were observed under the microscope by the use of transmitted light. The abdominal sympathetic chain was stimulated by rapidly repeated induction shocks, with both adrenals intact and with adrenals removed. Capillaries dilated and blood flow increased. The field usually became clearer and the striations more distinct, although with weak stimulation it might become clouded. A peculiar transverse vibration of the fibers developed, to pass later into transverse twitching. Both the vascular reaction and the muscle fiber reactions resembled the responses to epinephrin. The vibration or twitching may be muscular "tone.".