How to affect action potential

[nhmllr]

If there a way to affect the action potential propagation across neurons, for better or worse?
The organism I have in mind is planaria (flat worm) as they are very simple but can be conditioned (like the Pavlovian dog). I don't think that a non-harmful liquid chemical could have much effect, but is there another way, such as having a source of electricity near them? That's a stupid example, but I think you understand what I mean (I hope). Is there a way I could somehow inhibit the sodium potassium pumps, or the channels?

EDIT: I'm just thinking... Would temperature have much of an effect? Proteins work slower under lower temperatures, don't they?
Also, how many watts/volts/amps of an electrical current could they take? Would it matter?

 

[Kglocc]

I don't know anything specifically about planaria in regard to the resting potential of their neurons, but I'm guessing it's on the order of milli-Volts.
Voltage clamping is one technique that is exactly the kind of electrical stimulus you're talking about, or what I think you are trying to say. I'm not sure if it would be feasible in vivo, but micro electrodes are used to influence the cell potential, inducing an action potential with depolarization, or inhibition with hyperpolarization, or just observation.
I also found this
http://cshprotocols.cshlp.org/cgi/content/abstract/2008/10/pdb.prot5055?print=true
which might or might not be relevant to you

 

[mtc1973]

use oubain to inhibit the Na K ATPase activity

or a Na channel blocker like lidocaine


what are you trying to achieve?

 

[Ygggdrasil]

One can use light-sensitive ion channels to activate/inhibit action potentials in neurons. This technology has been used to make "remote-control" worms (http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=single-worm-neurons). It also works in other animals.

 

[LudusRex]

I can address your questions about affecting action potential in planaria. First, it is important to understand that action potential is a complex process involving the movement of ions across the cell membrane. The main players in this process are the sodium-potassium pumps and channels, as you mentioned. These pumps and channels are responsible for maintaining the electrical balance within the cell and are essential for the generation and propagation of action potentials.

One way to affect action potential in planaria is by using chemical substances that can alter the function of the sodium-potassium pumps and channels. For example, certain drugs can block the channels, preventing the movement of ions and thus inhibiting action potential. However, as you mentioned, this may not be a feasible option for non-harmful substances.

Another way to affect action potential is by manipulating the temperature. As you correctly pointed out, proteins work slower at lower temperatures. This can affect the function of the pumps and channels, and thus the generation and propagation of action potentials. However, it is important to note that extreme changes in temperature can also be harmful to the organism, so caution must be taken when experimenting with this approach.

Your suggestion of using electricity to affect action potential is not a "stupid example" at all. In fact, electrical currents have been used in research to study the effects on the nervous system. In planaria, it is possible to apply a low-intensity electrical current to manipulate the movement of ions and thus affect action potential. However, the exact parameters and effects would require further research and experimentation.

In terms of the amount of electricity that planaria can tolerate, this would depend on the specific species and their size. It is important to note that even small changes in electrical currents can have significant effects on the nervous system, so careful monitoring and regulation would be necessary.

In summary, there are various ways to affect action potential in planaria, including chemical substances, temperature, and electricity. However, it is important to carefully consider the potential effects on the organism and to conduct thorough research and experimentation before attempting to manipulate their nervous system.