Abstract
A tactile spot of the human skin was stimulated mechanically and then its electrical sensitivity was measured.
1. The electrical sensitivity was raised and declined with waxing and waning.
2. The sensitivity was maximal about 3.5 sec. after the end of a mechanical pressure. The increase in electrical sensitivity was the greater, the longer and the stronger the mechanical stimulus.
3. Two mechanical stimuli showed summation at intervals less than 1 sec. with respect to their effects on electrical excitability.
4. Pressure applied to points at various distances from the receptor to be tested on its electrical excitability showed effects decreasing with increasing distance. The rate of decline was different according to directions from the receptor to the point of pressure application.
5. Catelectrotonus increased, but anelectrotonus decreased the electrical sensitivity of the mechanoreceptor.
6. Local anesthesia depressed the electrical sensitivity.
