Question

IPSPs are the result of: a. decreasing membrane conductance to potassium neurotransmitter b. binding to ligand-gated ion channels that are chloride selective inhibitory neurotransmitter c. entering the postsynaptic cell d. decreasing membrane conductance to sodium

Answer 1

IPSPs are the result of:

a. decreasing membrane conductance to sodium

b. decreasing membrane conductance to potassium

c. inhibitory neurotransmitter entering the postsynaptic cell

d. neurotransmitter binding to ligand-gated ion channels that are chloride selective

Answer:

d. neurotransmitter binding to ligand-gated ion channels that are chloride selective

Explanation:

IPSP refers to inhibitory postsynaptic potential (IPSP). It occurs when the neurotransmitters released from the axon terminals of the presynaptic neurons bind to and open the chloride ion channels. This allows the entry of chloride ions into the neuron making the inside of the membrane even more negative. This does not allow firing of the action potential. The postsynaptic neuron is said to be hyperpolarized. Therefore, IPSP results from hyperpolarization of postsynaptic neurons by the opening of ion channels such as chloride channels.