Abstract
1. A previous finding of the author that the increased tonus which follows the addition of traces of alkali to a solution perfusing the heart is dependent on the calcium salts in the perfusing solution is confirmed.2. It is suggested that this action of the alkali is mediated by a change in the state of aggregation of some of the heart colloids.3. It is shown that the action of the alkali in inducing changes whereby the effective action of a given concentration of calcium in producing tonus is increased, is antagonised by calcium salts.4. It is suggested that calcium salts induce a state of aggregation in certain heart colloids which is unfavourable to their own activity in producing tonus.5. It is shown that alkalies first prolong and then shorten the refractory period of the heart, and that a marked summation of contractions is made possible.
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