Abstract
1. 1. Saponin-like substances present in extracts of Asterias rubens and Marthasterias glacialis were isolated and partially characterized. 2. 2. Microgram quantities of these saponins and some other surface-active agents elicited either an immediate avoidance reaction or an involuntary series of convulsions in Buccinum. The type of response was dependent on concentration. 3. 3. A sensitive, semi-quantitative assay was developed using the withdrawal response of the foot-muscle of intact Buccinum. 4. 4. The response of the foot-muscle of intact Buccinum towards purified preparations was not accurately reflected by a bio-assay procedure involving an isolated radula muscle of Buccinum. The latter but not the former required the presence of a protein fraction as well as the saponin-like substance for a significant response. 5. 5. The relative specificity of these saponin-like substances and other surface-active agents towards Buccinum has been studied. It is suggested that they stimulate or damage chemosensory cells on the surface of the foot-muscle.
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