Physiology of Voltage and Concentration Gradients

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to the physiology of voltage and concentration gradients in cells as discussed in the lecture notes.

Sodium Electrochemical Equilibrium Potential

The voltage at which there is no net movement of Na+ ions across the membrane, typically around +65 mV.

Resting Membrane Potential

The voltage across the membrane of a cell when it is not actively sending signals, approximately -90 mV for most neurons.

Potassium Gradients

The concentration difference of K+ ions across the cell membrane, crucial for maintaining resting potential.

Metabolic Acidosis

A condition leading to increased acidity in the body, which can cause hyperkalemia due to H+ and K+ ion exchange.

Hyperkalemia

A condition characterized by elevated levels of potassium in the blood, potentially leading to cardiac complications.

Rhabdomyolysis

A serious syndrome due to muscle injury that can cause the release of potassium into the bloodstream, affecting heart function.

Channelopathies

Disorders caused by dysfunctional ion channels in cells, affecting electrical signaling in tissues.

Na/K ATPase Pump

An enzyme that pumps Na+ out of cells and K+ into cells, crucial for maintaining ion gradients.

Electrochemical Equilibrium Potential

The membrane potential at which the concentration gradient and electrical gradient for a specific ion are balanced.

Ion Permeability

The ability of the cell membrane to allow ions to pass through, significantly affecting the membrane potential.