The effect of frequency of coaxial electrical stimulation on the peristaltic activity of the guinea-pig isolated ileum

Abstract

Low frequency coaxial electrical stimulation (6/min to 5/sec) of the guinea-pig isolated ileum, arranged for recording peristalsis, was found either to stimulate or to maintain the existing peristaltic activity. High frequency stimulation (5/sec to 100/sec) was found to inhibit regularly the existing spontaneous peristaltic activity. The propulsive peristaltic action was also significantly diminished by high frequency stimulation. In a fatigued preparation all the applied frequencies produced the coordinated peristaltic contractions which were blocked by hexamethonium and by cooling. The propulsive activity of these contractions was higher after low frequency stimulation. It is suggested that block of peristalsis after high frequency stimulation might be due to activation of inhibitory elements in the gut.