Abstract
Olfactory hairs of moths antennae were perfused with electrolyte during electrophysiological recording. The perfusate was drawn from the recording capillary electrode into the apically opened hair by applying suction on the haemolymph side. Due to suction, the receptor cell dendrite partially withdraws from the hair lumen. The withdrawal of receptor cell dendrites was examined by electron microscopy and after staining with lucifer yellow. In the withdrawn position the dendrite cannot be excited by airborne pheromone stimuli applied to the middle of the hair but it responds to pheromone dissolved in the perfusate. The normal position of the dendrite and its responses to external stimulation can be restored by applying pressure to the haemolymph side. These results show that pheromone molecules may stimulate olfactory cells directly without mediation by cuticular structures. Furthermore, the method of hair perfusion allows application of water-soluble agents to living dendrites of insect olfactory receptor cells.
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 callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
