The Bioelectric Field Pattern in the Salamander and Its Simulation by an Electronic Analog

The dc field potential has been determined on the surface of the intact salamander, Trituris viridescens. A complex field was found which did not correspond to a simple dipole. The field was found to vary in a dynamic fashion with changes in the level of anesthesia. The spatial organization of the field correlated well with the anatomical organization of the central nervous system of the animal, in that areas of nerve cell aggregations within the central nervous system appeared to serve as both sources and sinks of the potential, with transmission of the steady potential along major nerve trunks. An analog model of the central nervous system was constructed utilizing several bimetallic junctions and a conducting network. This model produced a field in a modified electrolytic tank which corresponded well with the field found in the intact animal. It was concluded that the dc bioelectric potential in organisms may be generated within and conducted by portions of the central nervous system. The possibility that this is a means of data transmission and/or control (in addition to the usual action potential system) is being evaluated.