The voltage-gated Na⁺ channels have inactivation gates which cause the action potential to have specific characteristics such as A) maximal frequency due to the absolute refractory period B) travel one-direction (not go back where it came from) C) inability to sum action potentials D) All these characteristics are due to the inactivation gates.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The inactivation gates of voltage-gated Na+ channels contribute to all the characteristics listed in the options. The absolute refractory period limits the maximal frequency of action potentials due to the time it takes for the inactivation gates to reset. The inability to sum action potentials is due to the fact that the inactivation gates need to reset before the channel can be activated again. One-directional flow of the action potential is also due to the inactivation gates, as they prevent the channel from opening again immediately after it closes, ensuring that the action potential can only travel in one direction.

The Voltage-Gated Na+ Channels Have Inactivation Gates Which Cause the Action

The Voltage-Gated Na⁺ Channels Have Inactivation Gates Which Cause the Action