Stimulatory effect of He-Ne laser on the ventral motorneurons in crayfish

This investigation described used continuous wave He-Ne laser energy (/spl lambda/ = 670 nm) in an attempt to stimulate the ventral nerve cord (VNC) of the crayfish. The VNC was used as a model system analogous to motorneurons of vertebrates. There were significant increases in spontaneous action potential, which normally occur in the VNC, following laser irradiation of 20+ s. The indications are that laser energy at this wavelength and 20+ s duration increases the sensitivity of the nerve cells. The energy required to elicit an electrical response was reduced from that of non-irradiated cells. All indications are that neural tissues have some light sensitivity and that proper wavelength and amplitude could elicit a motor action potential.<>