Cellular depolarization is the process by which a cell's membrane potential becomes less negative, moving towards zero. This change is crucial for the initiation and propagation of action potentials in neurons and muscle cells.
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Cellular depolarization is essential for the transmission of nerve impulses in the nervous system.
Depolarization occurs when sodium ions (Na+) flood into the cell through voltage-gated sodium channels.
Proper nutrition, especially electrolytes like sodium and potassium, is critical for maintaining normal depolarization processes.
Impaired cellular depolarization can lead to neurological disorders or muscle dysfunctions.
Calcium ions also play a role in cellular depolarization, particularly in cardiac and smooth muscle cells.
Review Questions
What role do sodium ions play in cellular depolarization?
How can an imbalance in electrolytes affect cellular depolarization?
Why is cellular depolarization important for nerve impulse transmission?
Related terms
Action Potential: A rapid rise and subsequent fall in voltage or membrane potential across a cellular membrane.
Voltage-Gated Sodium Channels: Protein channels that open or close in response to changes in membrane potential to allow sodium ions to enter the cell.
Membrane Potential: The difference in electric potential between the interior and exterior of a biological cell.