Effects of direct currents on the electrical activity of the spinal cord

Abstract

Scheminzky (see Scheminzky, 1940Scheminzky, , 1947, and the papers quoted therein) has shown that constant currents flowing longitudinally along the vertebral column of frogs can evoke muscular inhibition (Galvanonarkose) if the cathode is situated caudally, and muscular spasm (galvanischer Krampf) if it is cephalic. Evidence exists that the phenomenon is of central origin (Kollensperger & Scheminzky, 1938), and the interpretation has been suggested (Scheminzky, 1940) Baumgarten (1949) has shown that when current flows between two electrodes placed at the two opposite ends of the vertebral column of frogs, opposite motor effects can be obtained not only by reversing the polarity of the electrodes but also simply by displacing the trunk of the sciatic nerve. From these results he infers that Scheminzky's effect is conditioned by the electrotonic polarization of peripheral nerves.In the present research, part of which has been previously reported (Ajmone Marsan, Fuortes & Marossero, 1949b), an approach to the interpretation of Scheminzky's phenomenon was attempted by studying the actions of galvanic currents on the rhythmical activity of the spinal grey matter of mammals.

Transcutaneous spinal stimulation as a therapeutic strategy for spinal cord injury: state of the art

“…In the early 1940s, experimental animal models of SCI showed that constant current flows longitudinally along the spine in frogs. 34 In 1951, Marsan et al suggested that inhibition of spinal motor neurons by DC flow in the spinal cord of rats would cause alterations in the rhythmic activity of neurons of the anterior horn. 34 One study in cats provided evidence related to the mechanisms involved in synaptic potentiation.…”

“…34 In 1951, Marsan et al suggested that inhibition of spinal motor neurons by DC flow in the spinal cord of rats would cause alterations in the rhythmic activity of neurons of the anterior horn. 34 One study in cats provided evidence related to the mechanisms involved in synaptic potentiation. 25 DC was applied in a dorsoventral direction and able to modify both the membrane and the peak potentials of the primary afferent fibers.…”