Influence of Nervous System on Cell life. 295 
Briefly this theory was to the effect that in mammals, if 
not also in some lower groups of vertebrates, the nutritive 
processes are all under a constant regulative influence by 
the nervous system, in the sense that they are so dependent 
upon this influence, that they do not, and would not, go on 
without it. It was also pointed out that function was not a 
thing totally distinct and alone regulated by the nervous 
system, but that function was only one phase of a general 
metabolism, and was no more under the influence of the 
nervous centres than the other less recognized phases, 
A year’s additional study of the subject has convinced me 
more than ever of the necessity of widening our views of 
the relation of the various organic processes, so that instead 
of terming the theory, I would offer for your considera- 
tion one setting forth a constant neuro-trophic influence, I 
would replace it by the expression constant neuro-metabolic 
influence, as it implies a wider and truer conception of the 
subject, as I view it; and I am not sure but that it would 
be well to abandon the term “nutrition ” altogether, or, if 
not, certainly to define it afresh. 
The following, then, is a brief pr esentation of the subject 
in a form largely free ant technicalities. 
This subject is of the utmost importance, and has not re- 
ceived the attention hitherto in works on physiology to 
which we believe it is entitled. We may first mention a 
number facts on which to base conclusions :— 
1. Section of the nerves of bones is said to be followed by a 
diminution of their constituents, indicating an altera- 
tion in their metabolism. 
2. Section of the nerves supplying a cock’s comb interferes 
with the growth of that appendage. 
3. Section of the spermatic nerve is followed by degenera- 
tion of the testicle. 
4. After injury to a nerve, or its centre in the brain or 
spinal cord, certain affections of the skin may appear 
in regions corresponding to the distribution of that 
nerve, thus, herpes zoster is an eruption that follows 
frequently the distribution of the intercostal nerve, 
21 
