An inhibitory postsynaptic potential (IPSP) is associated with ________.
A) a change in sodium ion permeability
B) hyperpolarization
C) opening of voltage-regulated channels
D) lowering the threshold for an action potential to occur

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An inhibitory postsynaptic potential (IPSP) is associated with hyperpolarization, which means the membrane potential becomes more negative and therefore less likely to reach the threshold for an action potential. This is accomplished by opening chloride channels or increasing potassium ion efflux, which counters the depolarizing effects of any excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs). The change in sodium ion permeability and voltage-regulated channels are associated with EPSPs. Lowering the threshold for an action potential to occur is not associated with IPSPs.

An Inhibitory Postsynaptic Potential (IPSP) Is Associated with ________