THE MAMMALIAN VAGUS NERVE-A FUNCTIONAL AND HISTOLOGICAL STUDY

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Abstract
A correlation between the fiber types and the potential form as recorded by the cathode ray oscillograph is established in cats, dogs and rabbits. The function of the various fibers and the locus of their cells of origin are determined. All afferent functions served by the vagus nerve are mediated by myelinated fibers of the somatic type. The non-myelinated fibers are not afferent. The motor fibers to the larynx (large myelinated) and fibers modifying the inotropic and chronotropic activity of the heart (non-myelinated) are derived from cells located within the central nervous system. Non-myelinated fibers whose activity results in the constriction of the bronchi and in excitatory and inhibitory effects on the intestine (duodenum) arise from cells located within the nodose ganglion. These cells have a central and a peripheral process. It is highly probable that each cell has several peripheral processes, thus affording a system for multiplying the channels of distribution different from that which obtains in sympathetic ganglia. Non-myelinated fibers with cells of origin in the nodose ganglion are also found in cardiac vagal branches. The cervical sympathetic contributes few, if any, non-myelinated fibers to the cervical vagus.

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