EB - Neuronal Excitability

Question 1

What are the 2 main things that control neuronal excitability?

Answer 1

1. Resting membrane potential (equilibrium potential, Em)
2. Voltage-gated Na+ channels

Question 2

What happens at the resting potential?

Answer 2

• Balance between electrical and chemical forces
• No net movement of ions

Question 3

What equation is used to predict the equlibrium potential?

Answer 3

The Nernst Equation

E = (RT/NF) lnQ

Question 4

How does the Goldman equation differ from the Nernst?

Answer 4

Takes into account more than one ion

Question 5

What ions are important to mantain resting membrane potential?

Answer 5

Na+ / K+ ATPase