Temporal summation

Definition

Temporal summation is a mechanism in the nervous system where multiple action potentials from the same presynaptic neuron are added together over time to reach the threshold required to trigger an action potential in the postsynaptic neuron. It occurs when these successive signals arrive at a synapse closely spaced in time.

Related terms

Action potential: A short-lasting event in which the electrical membrane potential of a cell rapidly rises and falls, following a consistent trajectory.

Synapse:

The junction between two neurons or between a neuron and a muscle cell, where nerve impulses pass by diffusion of neurotransmitters.

Postsynaptic Potential: A change in membrane potential of the postsynaptic terminal of a chemical synapse, which can be either depolarizing (excitatory) or hyperpolarizing (inhibitory)