Influence of staphylococcal alpha-hemolysin on cortical sensory evoked potentials

Staphylococcal alpha-hemolysin injected iv into rabbits causes disappearance of the brain bioelectric activity, with particular involvement of the thalamic region. The toxin produces disintegration of the electronegative component of evoked potentials produced by sciatic nerve stimulation. It is postulated that alpha-hemolysin acts on both specific and nonspecific thalamic structures. Observed differences concern only the sequence of action on individual parts of the afferent system.