Abstract
The electrical properties of isolated antennal neurones from Locusta migratoria were investigated using patch clamp techniques. The neurones displayed a resting potential of −26±11 mV ( n=38) and an input resistance between 1–6 GΩ. Upon application of depolarizing voltage steps a non-inactivating non-specific inward current and a calcium-dependent outward potassium current were identified. Some neurones responded to stimulation by the grass odour hexenoic acid (1–100 μM) with an increase in ion channel activity in cell-attached recordings. This channel was identified as a calcium-activated potassium channel belonging to the maxi-K +-channel types. Odour-stimulation of antennal tissue and antennal cells using a fast quency device leads to a rapid generation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate, supporting the idea that this substance acts as second messenger in insect olfaction. The odour-induced increase in inositol trisphosphate concentration may initiate a rise in intracellular calcium controlling the activity of calcium-dependent ion channels.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
