Quantal currents and potential in the three-dimensional anisotropic bidomain model of smooth muscle.

The potential generated in the smooth muscle of the vas deferens on release of a quantum of transmitter from a varicosity was analyzed using a three-dimensional bidomain continuum model. Current was injected at the origin of the bidomain; this current had the temporal characteristics of the junctional current. The membrane potential, intracellular potential, and extracellular potential, as well as the extracellular current, were then calculated throughout the bidomain at different times. Calculations were performed to show the effect of changing the anisotropy ratios of the intracellular and extracellular conductivities on the spread of current and potential in each of the three dimensions. These results provide a theoretical framework for ascertaining the time course of transmitter interaction at a varicosity following the secretion of a quantum of transmitter.