A scientist genetically engineers a neuron whose voltage-gated Na⁺ channels lack the inactivation gate but which is otherwise normal. This neuron would be expected to

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The inactivation gate of voltage-gated Na+ channels is crucial for the temporary cessation of Na+ influx during an action potential, leading to the repolarization of the neuron. Without this inactivation, the neuron would not properly repolarize, affecting the directionality of action potentials, eliminating the absolute refractory period (since the channel cannot inactivate and thus reset), and also impacting the relative refractory period. Therefore, all of the listed effects (A, B, C) would be expected.

A Scientist Genetically Engineers a Neuron Whose Voltage-Gated Na+ Channels

A Scientist Genetically Engineers a Neuron Whose Voltage-Gated Na⁺ Channels