TRANSMEMBRANE POTENTIAL Meaning and
Definition
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Transmembrane potential, also known as membrane potential or resting potential, refers to the electrical potential difference that exists across the plasma membrane of a cell. It is a fundamental concept in physiology and relates to the distribution of charged ions (electrically charged atoms) across the cell membrane.
The transmembrane potential is primarily generated and maintained by the movement of ions, particularly sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), and chloride (Cl-), in and out of the cell. This movement occurs through specific ion channels and pumps present in the membrane. When there is a difference in the concentration of these ions on either side of the membrane, an electrical charge gradient is established. This results in a negative charge inside the cell compared to the outside.
The magnitude of the transmembrane potential is measured in millivolts (mV) and typically ranges from -40 mV to -80 mV in most cells at rest. The negative sign indicates that the inside of the cell is more negatively charged relative to the outside. This potential difference acts as a driving force for the movement of ions across the membrane, influencing various cellular processes such as cell signaling, membrane excitability, and the regulation of ion homeostasis.
Altering the transmembrane potential can have significant physiological consequences. For example, changes in transmembrane potential can trigger the firing of action potentials, which are electrical impulses that allow cells to communicate with each other. Additionally, disruptions in transmembrane potential can lead to various disorders or conditions, such as cardiac arrhythmias or neurological disorders.
In summary, transmembrane potential is the electrical potential difference across a cell's membrane, which is established by the movement of ions. It plays a crucial role in maintaining cellular function and regulating ion flux in and out of the cell.
Common Misspellings for TRANSMEMBRANE POTENTIAL
- rransmembrane potential
- fransmembrane potential
- gransmembrane potential
- yransmembrane potential
- 6ransmembrane potential
- 5ransmembrane potential
- teansmembrane potential
- tdansmembrane potential
- tfansmembrane potential
- ttansmembrane potential
- t5ansmembrane potential
- t4ansmembrane potential
- trznsmembrane potential
- trsnsmembrane potential
- trwnsmembrane potential
- trqnsmembrane potential
- trabsmembrane potential
- tramsmembrane potential
- trajsmembrane potential
- trahsmembrane potential
Etymology of TRANSMEMBRANE POTENTIAL
The term "transmembrane potential" can be broken down into its etymological components:1. Trans: This prefix is derived from the Latin word "trans", meaning "across" or "over". In the context of transmembrane potential, it refers to something that extends across or traverses the membrane.2. Membrane: This word comes from the Latin "membrana", which refers to a thin, flexible layer or sheet-like structure. In the human body, membranes are found throughout, such as cell membranes, organ membranes, etc.3. Potential: This word originates from the Latin "potentia", meaning "power" or "ability". In the field of physiology and cell biology, "potential" is often used to describe the stored energy or the ability to perform work in a system. In the case of transmembrane potential, it refers to the electrical potential difference that exists across a cell membrane.
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