Postsynaptic release of adenosine triphosphate induced by single impulse transmitter action

Abstract

Addition of firefly lantern extract to the solution flowing over a slice of electric organ of Torpedo permits one to measure the release of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) as a flash of light detected after each electrical discharge produced by the liberated transmitter. ATP is released from the postsynaptic cells as shown by its depression after curare and enhancement by eserine.