Studies on mechano-perception in characean cells: Development of a monitoring apparatus

Abstract

An apparatus to monitor the electrical signal generated in Chara cells upon mechanical stimulation was developed. An internodal cell was stimulated by dropping a glass tubing with the intensity of the stimulus being controlled by changing either the weight of the glass tubing or the height from which it was dropped. Upon stimulation, a receptor potential was generated with the amplitude being dependent on the stimulus intensity. When the receptor potential reached a threshold value, an action potential was generated. The receptor potential and action potential were characterized. The usefulness of this apparatus for analyzing receptor potentials is discussed.