Question

Describe & explain & discuss how manipulations of voltage, ion gradients, ionic currents, etc, etc, would affect neurophysiologic function.

Answer 1

Manipulations of voltage, ion gradients, ion currents etc will severely affect the neurophysiologic function. Neurophysiologic function is governed by action potential which causes release of neurotransmitters to occur many neurophysiologic functions. Action potential is governed by voltage across the membrane which depends on ion gradient and ionic currents. For example to start an action potential a stimulus is required which changes the resting membrane potential. When a stimulus reaches to its threshold value it causes opening of sodium potassium ion channel which allow the movement of sodium ions (ionic current) into the cells resulting into depolarization. Depolarization is followed by repolarization because of continued exit of potassium ions from the nerve cells. Repolarization is followed by hyperpolarization and again depolarization occurs because of opening of sodium channel. Thus, voltage, ion gradients and ionic current will severely affect the neurophysiologic function.