SOME MEMBRANE PROPERTIES OF THE EFFECTOR ORGAN IN THE GALVANIC SKIN RESPONSE,

Some of the membrane-like properties of the effector of the galvanic skin response GSR have been demonstrated in human subjects by changes in the external chemical environment and by changes in both the direction and density of imposed current. Potassium ion usually reduces GSR and basal resistance by 40 per cent large ions like Ca or SO4 increase exosomatic and endosomatic GSR up to several hundred per cent, while at the same time reducing basal resistance. GSR and basal resistance fall off at pH values on either side of the neutral range. Cationic and anionic detergents produce a significant reduction in GSR and basal resistance. There is a relatively small influence of polarity of current flow on basal resistance but a pronounced effect on the amplitude of the GSR in the case of large cations or anions combined with smaller ions of opposite charge. Evidence for an injury effect with currents greater than 11 micro Ampssquare cm is shown. Inflections in the curve showing polarization potential and relative GSR amplitude as a function of current density may imply the involvement of two or more distinct membranes in the GSR and basal resistance. The various effects on basal resistance and endosomatic and exosomatic GSR are interpreted in terms of a labile, semipermeable membrane located in the skin. Author