Ionic Stimulation of the Olfactory Epithelium in the Bullfrog and the Carp

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Abstract
The stimulating effects of mono- and divalent cations and anions were studied in the olfactory epithelia of the bullfrog [Rana catesbeiana] and carp [Cyprinus carpio]. The rhythmic waves induced by these ions were recorded in the olfactory bulb. Many mono- and divalent cations and anions showed stimulating actions in the bullfrog and carp. Microelectrode studies disclosed that the olfactory receptor cells respond to different ions differently. When many ions were applied with various concentrations, responses appeared with long latencies while the concentration was very low (the delayed responses). The responses nearly disappeared at the intermediate concentrations, but then responses with short latencies appeared at the higher concentrations (the initial responses). Thus, many ions showed dual responses in the bullfrog, although some exceptional cases were found (choline+, Tl+, La3+, Cd2+). Cd2+ and other heavy metal ions showed depressive actions on the responses induced by other ions in the olfactory epithelium. Tetrodotoxin of even 10-5 g/mlwas ineffective in depressing the rhythmic waves induced by ions. Chemoreceptive activities of the olfactory epithelia of the bullfrog and carp were compared with the activities of the gustatory receptors. They were also compared with the other chemoreceptors of the fish, i.e., the platal organ, external chemoreceptors over the snout region and the lateral-line organ. Chemical senses of the fish were discussed.

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