Action potentials contribute to neuronal signaling in C-elegans

Small, high-impedance neurons with short processes, similar to those found in the soil nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, are predicted to transmit electrical signals by passive propagation. However, we have found that certain neurons in C. elegans fire regenerative action potentials. These neurons resembled Schmitt triggers, as their potential state appears to be bistable. Transitions between up and down states could be triggered by application of the neurotransmitter glutamate or brief current pulses.