Researchers injected bark scorpion venom in mouse neurons (both a common house mouse and the southern grasshopper mouse) and measured the flow of sodium ions across the cell membrane. Their data is shown below. Based on these data, what effect do you think the venom is having on the grasshopper mouse?
A) The venom is blocking voltage-gated sodium channels.
B) The venom is blocking voltage-gated potassium channels.
C) The venom is opening voltage-gated sodium channels.
D) The venom is opening voltage-gated potassium channels.

Question

Researchers injected bark scorpion venom in mouse neurons (both a common house mouse and the southern grasshopper mouse) and measured the flow of sodium ions across the cell membrane. Their data is shown below.  Based on these data, what effect do you think the venom is having on the grasshopper mouse?
A) The venom is blocking voltage-gated sodium channels. 
B) The venom is blocking voltage-gated potassium channels. 
C) The venom is opening voltage-gated sodium channels. 
D) The venom is opening voltage-gated potassium channels.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The flow of sodium ions across the cell membrane is decreased in the presence of bark scorpion venom, indicating that the venom is blocking voltage-gated sodium channels. This is likely affecting the ability of the southern grasshopper mouse to transmit action potentials and could potentially cause paralysis or other neurological effects.

Researchers Injected Bark Scorpion Venom in Mouse Neurons (Both a Common