Impulse activity in afferent vagal C-fibres with endings in the intrapulmonary airways of dogs

Abstract

We recorded impulses from afferent vagal C-fibres (conduction velocities 0.8-2.4 m/sec) arising from endings in the lungs of anesthetized dogs with open chest. Endings were of two types ('pulmonary' and 'bronchial') distinguished by their response and accessibility to capsaicin and phenyl diguanide injected into the right or left atrium. 'Pulmonary' endings, stimulated only by capsaicin and accessible through the pulmonary circulation, have been described previously. 'Bronchial' endings were stimulated by both capsicin and phenyl diguanide and were accessible through the bronchial circulation. Eight of 28 'bronchial' endings were located in large airways within 4 cm of the hilum, and two were in small airways near the edge of the lung. The precise location of the remaining 'bronchial' endings was not determined but we think that many were in the airways. 'Bronchial' endings had a sparse and irregular spontaneous discharge. They were stimulated by the inhalation of 5% histamine aerosol, the evoked discharge having no obvious relation to the phase of ventilation. A few were weakly stimulated by hyperinflating the lungs; deflation was without effect. The function of these endings is unknown.