Electrical and Synaptic Signaling in Neurons

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary related to electrical and synaptic signaling in neurons, including definitions and essential concepts for exam preparation.

Neuron

A specialized cell that transmits electrical impulses in the nervous system.

Action Potential

A rapid change in membrane potential that travels along the neuron, resulting from the influx of sodium ions and subsequent efflux of potassium ions.

Membrane Potential

The electrical charge difference across the cell membrane, essential for the function of neurons.

Dendrites

Branching extensions of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons.

Axon

A long projection of a neuron that transmits impulses away from the cell body.

Synapse

The junction between two neurons or between a neuron and another cell.

Resting Membrane Potential (Vm)

The electrical potential of a neuron at rest, typically around -60 to -70 mV.

Potassium Concentration Gradient

A disparity whereby potassium ions are more concentrated inside the cell compared to the outside.

Voltage-Gated Channels

Ion channels that open or close in response to changes in membrane potential.

Na+/K+ Pump

A cellular mechanism that actively transports sodium ions out of the cell and potassium ions into the cell.

Refractory Period

The period during which a neuron cannot fire another action potential shortly after firing.

Glial Cells

Supportive cells in the nervous system that perform various functions, including maintaining homeostasis, forming myelin, and providing support and protection.

Threshold Potential

The level of membrane depolarization that must be reached for an action potential to be initiated.

Electroneutrality

The condition of having an equal number of positive and negative charges in a solution.

Hyperpolarization

An increase in membrane potential, making the inside of the cell more negative than the resting potential.

Myelin Sheath

An insulating layer around axons that increases the speed of signal transmission.