Ectopic Generators

Sustained impulse generation is normally the domain of sensory endings that innervate all peripheral tissues. This property is a consequence of a specially differentiated patch of axonal membrane that permits the sensory ending to encode stimulus-evoked generator depolarizations into a meaningful train of propagated impulses. Electrogenic capability requires close regulation of the synthesis, transport, and disposition of voltage-sensitive ion channels, most notably Na⁺ and ⁺ channels. In the event of nerve injury and disease, this normal regulatory process is disrupted. A frequent result is the emergence of ectopic impulse generators, abnormal afferent discharge, and much consequent human misery.