intracellular potential – extracellular = voltage
The intracellular potential refers to the electrical potential, or voltage, difference inside a cell when compared to its surrounding extracellular environment
The intracellular potential refers to the electrical potential, or voltage, difference inside a cell when compared to its surrounding extracellular environment. It is usually measured in millivolts (mV). The intracellular potential is determined by the movement of charged molecules, mostly ions, across the cell membrane.
The cell membrane is selectively permeable, meaning it allows only selected ions to enter or exit the cell. This selectivity is maintained by specific ion channels and ion pumps present on the cell membrane. These channels and pumps play a crucial role in establishing and maintaining the intracellular potential.
In a resting state, when the cell is not actively transmitting signals, the intracellular potential is negative with respect to the extracellular environment. This negative potential is primarily due to the higher concentration of negatively charged ions, such as proteins and organic anions, inside the cell compared to the outside. Additionally, ion pumps and channels contribute to maintaining this potential by actively transporting ions across the cell membrane.
The difference between the intracellular and extracellular potentials is known as the voltage, which is the measure of electrical potential. The voltage is typically referred to as the resting membrane potential.
The electrical potential across the cell membrane plays a vital role in various cellular processes, including signal transmission, cell communication, and regulating ion concentrations. In excitable cells, such as neurons and muscle cells, changes in the intracellular potential allow for the generation and propagation of electrical impulses, enabling cellular communication and the coordination of physiological functions.
Understanding the role and dynamics of the intracellular potential is fundamental to comprehending the mechanisms and functioning of cells, as well as the overall functioning of the nervous system and other electrical systems in the body.
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