Write notes on resting potential?

- Resting potential refers to the electrical charge difference across the cell membrane of a neuron when it is not actively transmitting signals.
- The resting potential is typically around -70 millivolts (mV) in neurons, meaning that the inside of the neuron is negatively charged compared to the outside.
- This electrical charge difference is maintained by the selective permeability of the cell membrane to different ions, such as sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), and chloride (Cl-).
- The resting potential is primarily established by the sodium-potassium pump, which actively transports three sodium ions out of the neuron for every two potassium ions it brings in. This creates an excess of positive charge outside the neuron and an excess of negative charge inside.
- The resting potential is also influenced by the passive diffusion of ions through ion channels in the cell membrane. Potassium channels are particularly important in maintaining the resting potential, as they allow potassium ions to leak out of the neuron, contributing to its negative charge.
- The resting potential is crucial for the neuron's ability to transmit electrical signals. When a neuron receives a stimulus, it can depolarize or hyperpolarize, causing a change in the resting potential. If the change is significant enough to reach the threshold, an action potential may be generated and the neuron can transmit signals to other neurons.
- The resting potential is essential for various neuronal functions, including the maintenance of cell integrity, the regulation of ion concentrations, and the preparation for rapid signal transmission.
- Disorders or disruptions in the resting potential can lead to neurological problems. For example, certain genetic mutations can affect ion channels, resulting in abnormal resting potentials and impairments in neuronal communication.

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