Observations on the isolated vas deferens.

Experiments on the isolated vas deferens of guinea-pig and rat had unexpected results in several ways. The effect of stimulation of the hypogastric nerve was not abolished, but increased, by parasympathetic blocking agents or by sympathetic blocking agents such as dihydroergotamine and phenoxybenzamine. The sensitization is considered not due to anticholinesterase activity of the drugs. Prolonged contact with a stimulating agent evoked rhythmic contractions. Addition as well as removal of a drug from the bath caused a response. The results of experiments involving chronic denervation, addition of hexamethonium and histological examination tally with the assumption of a distribution of ganglionic cells along the nerve just outside the organ.