The afferent neural response to electrotactile stimuli: preliminary results

IEEE Trans Rehabil Eng. 2000 Jun;8(2):268-70. doi: 10.1109/86.847828.

Abstract

We recorded action potentials from three RA fibers innervating primate fingerpad, while applying electrotactile (electrocutaneous) stimulation. Negative pulses required 1.3-1.5 times more current than positive ones for entrainment. The strength-duration time constant was approximately 151 micros. Suprathreshold sinusoidal vibration synchronized to 30-Hz electrotactile pulses changed the electrotactile entrainment current slightly, indicating a possible electrical-mechanical transduction interaction.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Action Potentials / physiology
  • Afferent Pathways / physiology
  • Animals
  • Communication Devices for People with Disabilities
  • Electric Stimulation
  • Electrodes
  • Fingers / innervation*
  • Macaca mulatta
  • Mechanoreceptors / physiology
  • Sensory Aids*
  • Touch / physiology*