Some neurotransmitters result in excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs), and

Question

Some neurotransmitters result in excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs), and some result in inhibitory postsynaptic potentials (IPSPs). Name one of the neurotransmitters that we learned that causes inhibitory postsynaptic potentials in neurons of the brain. (1) In order to explain how an IPSP can occur, you have to understand normal physiology of action potentials (electrophysiology). Describe in your own words the meanings of resting membrane potential (2), depolarization (2), repolarization (2) and hyperpolarization (1). Discuss refractory periods in your answer (2). Then explain using electrophysiological terms, what is MOST LIKELY occurring if an IPSP is being produced in a neuron.

Explanation / Answer

GABA and glycine are neurotransmitters that  result in inhibitory postsynaptic potentials.

resting membrane potential the electrical potential of a neuron or other excitable cell relative to its surroundings when not stimulated or involved in passage of an impulse.it  is about -70 mV .

depolarization, the inside of the membrane, which is normally negatively charged, becomes positive and the outside negative. This is brought about by positive sodium ions rapidly passing into the axon.

repolarization, a change in membrane potential that returns it to a negative value just after the depolarization phase of an action potential has changed the membrane potential to a positive value.

hyperpolarization, a change in a cell's membrane potential that makes it more negative. It is the opposite of a depolarization. It inhibits action potentials by increasing the stimulus required to move the membrane potential to the action potential threshold.

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