The effect of ganglioblocking agents on synaptic transmission of nervous excitation in the sympathetic ganglia

Summary

A study was made of the effect produced by the ganglioblocking substances tetraethylammonium, Hexonium, Pentamine, and Mekamine, on the post-activating inhibition in the sympathetic ganglia and the bioelectric activity of the ganglia in antidromic conduction of excitation. None of the substances tested increased the post-activating inhibition or disturbed the antidromic conduction along the post-synaptic neurones. As distinct from the ganglioblocking substances, Procaine produced a depressive effect on the functional state of the post-synaptic part of the ganglionic neurones. Consequently, disturbance of the interneurone transmission of excitation in the autonomic ganglia occurring under the effect of ganglioblocking substances is largely connected with the reduced excitability of the ganglion cholinoceptors, but may evidently also depend on the depressive gangliolytic effect on the activity of presynaptic terminals.