If you record EPSCs with a patch electrode from an interneuron in the
CA1 region of a rat hippocampal slice preparation and hold the postsynaptic membrane potential at -80 mV, why is the response not sensitive to blockers of NMDA receptors?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

At -80 mV, NMDA receptors are blocked by magnesium ions (Mg2+), which is a voltage-dependent block. This means that at negative membrane potentials, such as -80 mV, Mg2+ ions block the NMDA receptor channels and prevent the flow of ions through them, rendering the response to NMDA receptor activation negligible.

If You Record EPSCs with a Patch Electrode from an Interneuron