Two EPSPs combine to drive a cell to threshold potential. This is an example of ____.
A)neuromodulation
B)intersignaling
C)neurotransmitter release
D)synaptic inhibition
E)summation

Question

Two EPSPs combine to drive a cell to threshold potential. This is an example of ____. ​
A)neuromodulation
B)intersignaling
C)neurotransmitter release
D)synaptic inhibition ​
E)summation ​

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The combination of two EPSPs leading to a cell reaching its threshold potential is an example of summation. Summation refers to the process where multiple synaptic inputs are added together to determine whether or not a neuron will fire an action potential. In this case, the EPSPs are combining (summing) to reach the threshold for firing an action potential. Choice A (neuromodulation) refers to the process of modifying the activity of neurons or neural circuits, which is not applicable in this scenario. Choice B (intersignaling) is not a commonly used term in neuroscience, and does not accurately describe the process at hand. Choice C (neurotransmitter release) refers to the process by which neurotransmitters are released from presynaptic neurons and bind to receptors on postsynaptic neurons, which is a necessary step for EPSPs to be generated in the first place, but does not describe the combination of two EPSPs. Choice D (synaptic inhibition) refers to the process of inhibitory neurotransmitters binding to receptors on postsynaptic neurons, leading to hyperpolarization and a decrease in the likelihood of firing an action potential, which is also not relevant in this scenario.

Two EPSPs Combine to Drive a Cell to Threshold Potential