Modified actions of qigong on rat axonal sodium channels

The excitatory action of outward-air were tested on isolated giant axon of the rat, using microelectrode and oil-gap, singlefibre, voltage-clamp recording technique of electrophysiology. The excitable activity of outward-air of qigong is primarily determined by both sodium currents, I am of sodium channels and delayed-state potassium currents, I am of potassium channels. The results are summarized as follows:

1. In voltage clamp, A typical current pattern associated during 10 mv step depalorization of membrane potential is shown (lower tracing). It will be seen that a brief outward-air capacitative current, a transient phase of inward current i.e.sodium currents (Ina) and a delayed maintained outward currents i.e.potassium currents (Ik). When outward-air was applied with right hand at distance 1.2m, no change in Ina for 5 min. but, after 6-10 min slow rises the peak inward sodium current to measure -0.7 A. cm (control -0.45 A. cm) i.e. 47.8% of the peak I in control.

2. Thus qigong induces a slow reversible depolarization. The outward-air modifies a part percentage of sodium channels, holding them in a modifies open-state for prolonged periods (0.9–1.4 msec, control 0.7–1 m sec). As more channels become modified in this way the axon depolarizes eventually slowing the turn-off the sodium current. Because the excitatory actions of outward–air may be explained by an increase in sodium ions permeability.

3. Families of potassium currents were recorded and voltage–current relation were obtained before and after application of qigong, increased the peak current by more than 39.7%. It was to generate rapid depolarizations of the resting membrane for excitations.