Metabolic dependence of transmural potential difference and short circuit current in isolated Aplysia juliana intestine

Abstract

1. 1. Transmural potential difference and short-circuit current of intestinal sheets of Aplysia Juliana were stable up to 4 hr. 2. 2. Transmural potential differences was serosa negative relative to the mucosa and the short-circuit current was consistent with a net active anion transport from mucosa to serosa. 3. 3. Transmural potential difference and short-circuit current were absolutely dependent upon the presence of sodium and chloride in the bathing medium. 4. 4. Transmural potential difference and short-circuit current were predominantly dependent upon aerobic metabolism, however a small electrical component was dependent upon glycolytic energy. 5. 5. Transmural potential difference and short-circuit current was dependent on Na +-K + stimulated ATPase activity. 6. 6. The major portion of the short-circuit current is carried by a net active chloride transfer from the mucosal to serosal compartments.