Reversal potential

Reversal potential (also known as equilibrium potential) is a specific membrane potential at which the net flow of a particular ion (such as sodium, potassium, calcium, or chloride) across the cell membrane via a specific ion channel is zero. This is due to the balance between the chemical and electrical driving forces that are acting on the ion species via the membrane.

Overview

The reversal potential is determined by the intra- and extracellular ion concentrations, and by the temperature. It can be calculated using the Nernst equation. The reversal potential is a key concept in the field of neuroscience and physiology, particularly in the study of cellular membrane potentials.

Determination of Reversal Potential

The reversal potential for a particular ion is the membrane potential at which the electrical and chemical forces acting on that ion species are balanced. This means that there is no net flow of the ion across the membrane. The reversal potential is determined by the Nernst equation, which takes into account the temperature, the charge of the ion, and the ratio of the intra- and extracellular ion concentrations.

Role in Neuroscience

In neuroscience, the reversal potential is an important concept in understanding how neurons function. The reversal potential of a neuron can change in response to changes in the concentrations of ions across the neuron's membrane. This can affect the neuron's ability to generate action potentials, which are the electrical signals that neurons use to communicate with each other.

See Also

• Nernst equation
• Membrane potential
• Action potential
• Neuroscience
• Physiology

References

Reversal potential Resources
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