The electrostatic basis of Mg++ inhibition of transmitter release

R. U. Muller, A. Finkelstein

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

47 Scopus citations

Abstract

The inhibitor by Mg++ of stimulus evoked transmitter release is attributed to a decrease in surface potential on the outer surface of the presynaptic terminal and hence a lower surface calcium concentration, [Ca++]. Data on the frog neuromuscular junction are quantitatively fit by assuming that there is a negative charge density on the outer surface of the presynaptic terminal of 6.5 x 1013 charges per cm2 and that simple diffuse double layer theory is applicable. No specific binding of Mg++ or Ca++ is required. Without any additional assumptions, the inhibitory effect of univalent cations is also quantitatively predicted.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)923-926
Number of pages4
JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America
Volume71
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - 1974
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General

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