Understanding action potentials is very important for improving how we help people with brain and nerve issues. Here are some key points to know:
What Are Action Potentials?
Neurons, which are the cells in our brain and nerves, send signals using something called action potentials. This happens when the electrical charge inside the neuron changes. It usually starts when the charge reaches about -55 mV, then quickly jumps to about +30 mV.
Disorders and Their Effects
Some health problems, like epilepsy, happen when these action potentials don’t work normally. Did you know that 1 in 26 people will have epilepsy at some point in their life?
How Neurons Talk to Each Other
For neurons to communicate well, they need to release special chemicals called neurotransmitters, and this depends on action potentials. The way these signals are sent can change how strong the connections between neurons are. In fact, this affects 80% of how neurons respond to each other!
Helping Patients
By understanding how action potentials work, doctors can plan better treatments. For example, using medicine that blocks sodium channels can help patients with epilepsy feel better. This knowledge can really improve how we care for people with these conditions.
Understanding action potentials is very important for improving how we help people with brain and nerve issues. Here are some key points to know:
What Are Action Potentials?
Neurons, which are the cells in our brain and nerves, send signals using something called action potentials. This happens when the electrical charge inside the neuron changes. It usually starts when the charge reaches about -55 mV, then quickly jumps to about +30 mV.
Disorders and Their Effects
Some health problems, like epilepsy, happen when these action potentials don’t work normally. Did you know that 1 in 26 people will have epilepsy at some point in their life?
How Neurons Talk to Each Other
For neurons to communicate well, they need to release special chemicals called neurotransmitters, and this depends on action potentials. The way these signals are sent can change how strong the connections between neurons are. In fact, this affects 80% of how neurons respond to each other!
Helping Patients
By understanding how action potentials work, doctors can plan better treatments. For example, using medicine that blocks sodium channels can help patients with epilepsy feel better. This knowledge can really improve how we care for people with these conditions.