The role of the nervous system in local inflammatory responses

Abstract

Abstract Inflammation produced in rats by three means has been investigated. The response produced by the external application of xylol seemed to be the result of stimulation of the axon reflex in the area of skin where the substance was applied; it was prevented by chronic denervation of the sensory nerves. The inflammatory response produced by dextran involved the release of 5-hydroxytryptamine; it was prevented by the prior treatment with specific antagonists. The inflammatory response produced by heat treatment did not involve the axon reflex and appeared to be the result of another mechanism, probably involving bradykinin.