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Positive Signal: Lone protons carry messages between cells

By Patrick Barry

- More than 2 years ago

Roundworms need protons to poop.

MINIMESSENGER. Protons diffuse quickly from a roundworm’s gut and bind to receptors on surrounding muscles. The receptors then cause the muscles to contract, which makes the animal defecate. G. Ernstrom, Univ. of Utah

New research shows that protons released by roundworms’ intestines trigger surrounding muscles to contract, causing the worm to defecate.