Depolarizing prepulse
Depolarizing Prepulse
Depolarizing prepulse (pronunciation: de-polar-izing pre-pulse) is a term used in the field of neuroscience and electrophysiology to describe a technique used to alter the voltage of a neuron before a main stimulus is applied. This technique is often used in research to study the properties of voltage-gated ion channels and their role in neuronal excitability.
Etymology
The term "depolarizing prepulse" is derived from the words "depolarize" and "prepulse". "Depolarize" comes from the prefix "de-" meaning "reverse of" and "polarize", which in this context refers to the process of altering the electrical polarity or voltage of a neuron. "Prepulse" is a compound of "pre-" meaning "before" and "pulse", referring to a brief electrical stimulus.
Related Terms
- Depolarization: The process by which the voltage of a neuron is made less negative, often as a result of the influx of positively charged ions.
- Hyperpolarization: The opposite of depolarization, this is the process by which the voltage of a neuron is made more negative.
- Voltage-gated ion channels: Proteins in the cell membrane that open or close in response to changes in voltage, allowing ions to flow into or out of the cell.
- Action potential: A rapid, temporary change in the voltage of a neuron, typically caused by the opening and closing of voltage-gated ion channels.
- Neuronal excitability: The ability of a neuron to generate an action potential in response to a stimulus.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Depolarizing prepulse
- Wikipedia's article - Depolarizing prepulse
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