STUDIES ON NERVE METABOLISM

Abstract
The "free sugar," glycogen and lactic acid content of rabbit and bull-frog nerves have been determined by 2 methods. During rest in O there is no change in glycogen or lactic acid content. The free sugar decreases with increased duration. In rabbit nerves at 37[degree] C. the decrease is 36 mgm. % for the 1st hr., progressively less during later periods. In bull-frog nerves at 22[degree] C. the rate of fall is constant for at least 9 hrs. at 6 mgm. % per hr. This is a loss of 50% more "free sugar" than could be oxidized. Its fate is unknown. Nerves stimulated in various ways and for periods up to 9 hrs. have the same content of free sugar, glycogen and lactic acid as their resting controls. It is concluded that the extra energy required for nerve activity is not obtained by the oxidation of any of these substances.

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