The plateau of the action potential in cardiac ventricular cells results from the opening of voltage-gated long-lasting ___________ channels in the plasma membrane of the cell.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The plateau of the action potential in cardiac ventricular cells results from the opening of voltage-gated long-lasting Ca2+ channels in the plasma membrane of the cell. This influx of Ca2+ maintains the depolarization of the membrane potential, leading to sustained contraction of the heart muscle. A is incorrect as there is no Na⁺ channel. B is incorrect as there is no K⁺ channel. D is incorrect as the Cl^- channel does not contribute to the plateau phase of the action potential. E is incorrect as glucose is not a channel.

The Plateau of the Action Potential in Cardiac Ventricular Cells