Abstract
Among the first to use electrodialysis in biological studies were Bronfenbrenner, 1 who constructed a special apparatus for the isolation of bacteriophage, and Murphy, 2 who used this apparatus in cancer research. One of us 3 has already reported about the difficulties which might possibly arise in using this apparatus for biological investigations. For this reason an improved apparatus was constructed for our research by Dr. N. Michailowsky. The apparatus differs from the older model in the construction of the cell in which the electrochemical process is carried out. This cell is divided into 3 parts, namely: anode, cathode and middle chamber. Between the 2 electrode chambers and the middle chamber 2 Norton Alundum Membranes can be introduced. These diaphragms, which have a diameter of 3 1/2 inches may be combined with special Ultra or Cellafilters. The electrodes are exchangeable and, therefore, different metals can be used as electrode materials. Means for proper agitation and for temperature readings are provided. It is possible to use all 3 chambers for experiments and to study the electrochemical effects of anode, cathode and middle chamber separately. This apparatus can be operated by direct or alternating currents.
In order to study the behavior of living tissue in the described apparatus, we began investigations on Paramaecium caudatum, chicken-sarcoma Rous and other cancerous tissues as Flexner carcinoma and sarcoma No. 10 and No. 39.
The experiments on paramaecium were carried out in the middle division; there was at the same time a continuous circulation of water in the other 2 divisions.
We found that the voltage as compared with amperage has a relatively slight influence on the mortality and therefore we maintained a constant potential of about 100 volts in our experiments.
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