Synaptic connexions of two symmetrically placed giant serotonin-containing neurones

Abstract

1. Each giant serotonin cell in Helix pomatia makes synaptic connexions with three non-amine-containing neurones: the anterior, middle and posterior buccal cells.2. Individual e.p.s.p.s, of 500-600 msec duration, were observed in both left and right middle cells following each evoked giant serotonin cell action potential. They were facilitated with repetitive stimulation of the giant serotonin cells and summed to give rise to an action potential. The membrane resistance of the middle cells was reduced when the giant serotonin cells were stimulated to fire rapidly. Evidence is presented which suggests that the link between each giant serotonin cell and each middle cell is monosynaptic.3. Iontophoretically applied serotonin produced a depolarizing potential change in the middle cell perikaryon; the response rapidly desensitized on repetitive application.4. Morphine abolished reversibly the middle cell serotonin potential and antagonized transmission from the giant serotonin cells to the middle cells. Lowering the Na concentration of the medium reversibly diminished the size of the serotonin potential and the giant serotonin cell elicited e.p.s.p.s in the middle cells.5. Reserpine, which depletes serotonin in the giant serotonin cell, impaired transmission from these cells to the middle cells.6. The results suggest that serotonin is the synaptic transmitter released from the giant serotonin cells on to the middle cells and that this system is a suitable model for further analysis of the neuronal role of serotonin.