In: Biology
Using an interneuron as your point of reference, describe the difference between excitatory graded potentials and action potentials. Include the following in your answer for EACH type of potential.
A) WHERE the potential is generated in the neuron
B) WHAT triggers the generation of the potential (“kind of stimulus” and type of ion channels that open/close)
C) DISTANCE traveled (short/long) and INTENSITY over that distance (constant/decremental)
Interneurons are another type of neuron found in the spinal cord. Interneurons are found in integrative areas of the central nervous system (CNS), enable communication between sensory neurons and the CNS.
Graded potential | Action potential |
In neurons, graded potentials are generated by interplay of ligand-gated channels, where it occur in post-synaptic plasma membrane in dendrites and a few in the somata. | An action potential is generated in the body of the neuron where it occur by special types of voltage-gated ion channels (voltage-gated Na+ and K+ channels) in a cell's plasma membrane. |
Graded potentials are triggered by external stimuli or by release of neurotransmitters in synapses, where they cause graded potentials in the post-synaptic cell. | Action potentials are triggered by membrane depolarization to threshold, which is generated by graded potentials. |
Amplitute diminishes graded potentials, travels away from the initial site (decremental) a few milliseconds to seconds. | Amplitude does not diminishes action potential and propogated to the end of the axon (non-decremental). travels relatively short distance (3-5 ms). |