K+ accumulation around the giant axon of the squid: comparison of electrical and morphological measurements

Abstract

K+ clearance following axon activity was measured around squid axons and found to be 20 times more efficient in preparations that were undissected. Around dissected preparations, Schwann cells were found to be swollen and vacuolated. It is suggested that traditional dissection methods damage Schwann cells and their K+ clearance function is impaired.