L02 - Membrane physiology Flashcards
1
Q
In a cell, what does the membrane control?
A
Controls ion movement in and out
2
Q
How are electrical signals generated?
A
Transfer of ions through ion channels
3
Q
What determines the membrane potential (Em)?
A
Balance of charges determines value of Em
4
Q
What is membrane potential and typical value?
A
The voltage inside a cell aka Em
- typically -65mV as the inside of a cell contains slight excess of anions (-ve voltage)
5
Q
What are some of the different gating mechanisms?
A
- Non-gated (leak)
- Voltage
- Ligand (chemical)
6
Q
What is the function of non-gated (leak) channels?
A
Sets the Em of resting membrane (control)
7
Q
What is the function of voltage gated channels?
A
Generates action potentials
8
Q
What is the function of ligand (chemical) channels?
A
Generates Em changes at synapse
