In: Anatomy and Physiology
Graded potentials may:
W. initiate an action potential.
X. depolarize the membrane to the threshold voltage.
Y. hyperpolarize the membrane.
Z. be called EPSPs or IPSPs.
Select one:
a.
if only W, X and Y are correct
b. if only W and Y are correct
c. if only X and Z are correct
d. if only Z is correct
e. if all are correct
COULD YOU EXPLAIN NOT JUST THE CORRECT ANSWER BUT THE REASONS FOR ALL PLS
Answer: e) if all are correct.
Explanation:
- Graded potential are local membrane potential due to opening of ligand gated ion channels. It is proportional to the strength of the initial stimulus and does not follow all or none law and is decremental with distance unlike action potential (action potential is change in the membrane potential due to voltage gated ion channels opening, follows all or none law and independent of the strength of initial stimulus).
- Graded potential can be excitatory or inhibitory in nature depending on the depolarization or hyperpolarization of the post synpatic membrane. A slight depolarization of the post synpatic membrane due to opening of ligand gated sodium channels is called excitatory post synaptic potential (EPSP). A slight hyperpolarization of the post synpatic membrane due to opening of ligand gated potassium channels (K+ efflux) and chloride channels (Cl- influx) is called inhibitory post synpatic potential (IPSP). Thus, graded potential can be both depolarize and hyperpolarize the membrane and results in excitatory (EPSP) or inhibitory (IPSP) post synpatic potential respectively.
- If the graded potential is excitatory post synaptic potential (EPSP) and results in depolarization of the post synpatic membrane and if it causes depolarization of the post synpatic membrane to more than or equal to the threshold level, it can result in generation of action potential.
Thus, a graded potential of sufficient strength can cause the post synpatic membrane to reach its threshold voltage and results in generation of action potential.