Investigation of the spasmogenic effect of manganese on the guineapig isolated ileum preparation.

1. The mechanism of the manganese-induced spasm of the guinea-pig ileum was investigated using agents known to modify nerve function. The spasm was reduced by cooling, tetrodotoxin, procaine, Botulinus toxin (Type A), hyoscine and pempidine. It was potentiated by mipafox.2. In the presence of manganese, the release of acetylcholine from the ileum was greatly increased.3. Tetrodotoxin prevented the manganese-induced increase in acetylcholine output from the ileum but had no significant effect on the spontaneous acetylcholine output.4. It is suggested that the manganese-induced spasm of the ileum results from an action on intramural cholinergic nerves.