TRANSMURAL POTENTIAL DIFFERENCE AT LEVEL OF UPPER ESOPHAGEAL SPHINCTER IN MAN

Using an improved method of recording transmural potential difference, a fall of potential difference was demonstrated at the level of the high pressure zone of the upper esophageal sphincter in normal subjects. The level where this negative deflection of potential difference occurs corresponds to the area where, in the upper esophagus, glands resembling the gastric cardiac glands are found. It is suggested that the potential difference over this area is altered due to the difference of secretory activity between glands of the body of the esophagus and the area of the upper sphincter. © 1969 Hoeber Medical Division • Harper & Row, Publishers, Incorporation.