The Effect of Acetylcholine and Potassium on Repolarization of the Heart *

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Abstract
Acetylcholine, when injected just above the aortic valves of normokalemic dogs, has a measurable effect on the amplitude of the T wave of the surface ecg. The acetylcholine effect on the T wave was augmented by increasing the plasma potassium level. Because the configuration and duration of the QRS remained unchanged during the acetylcholine injection, the alteration in the height and configuration of the T wave was primary and indicated accelerated repolarization. Thus, through electrocardio-graphic evidence, acetylcholine was shown to have an effect on the mammalian ventricle.