The electrophysiological analysis of the action of antigens on angioceptors

Staphylococcal antigen produces irritation of the carotid sinus receptors; this is transformed into excitation, which gives rise to fluctuating bioelectric potentials of monophasic and biphasic character. The discharge period is increased, while in the intervals between the discharges the initial fluctuation of the potentials becomes intensified. Pertussis antigen also irritates the carotid sinus receptors and thus produces in the carotid sinus nerve a flow of impulses changing the normal oscillogram of this nerve.E. coli has a weak ability to irritate the carotid sinus receptors and changes only insignificantly the fluctuation rate of the carotid sinus nerve bioelectric potentials. The variations in the action currents of the carotid sinus nerve, originating from the action of the antigens on the carotid sinus receptors, are independent of any mechanical irritation. Administration of the same amount of physiological saline has no effect on the oscillogram of the sinus nerve.