3020 Lecture 8
Amber Stokes・2 minutes read
The nervous system relies on membrane potential for its performance, with neurons able to alter this potential through shifting charges across the cell's surface. Understanding the movement of ions, changes in permeability, and the distinct stages of action potential is crucial for comprehending the complex process and preparing for exam questions.
Insights
- Neurons maintain a resting membrane potential of around -70 millivolts, achieved through the sodium-potassium pump moving ions and potassium leak channels allowing constant diffusion, crucial for generating graded potentials leading to action potentials.
- Action potentials follow a precise sequence involving depolarization, repolarization, and hyperpolarization stages, driven by the opening and closing of voltage-gated sodium and potassium channels, emphasizing the importance of understanding ion movements and channel states for a comprehensive grasp of neural signaling processes.
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Recent questions
What is membrane potential?
The difference in electric potential between cell interior and exterior.
How do neurons generate action potentials?
By reaching a certain threshold and depolarizing.
What are EPSPs and IPSPs?
Excitatory and inhibitory post-synaptic potentials.
What is the role of voltage-gated channels?
Crucial in action potentials for ion movement.
Why is understanding ion movement important?
Essential for comprehending action potential processes.