Electrophysiology is a branch of physiology that studies the electrical properties of biological cells and tissues. It primarily focuses on how cells generate and respond to electrical signals, which are crucial for various physiological processes, including the functioning of the nervous system and the heart. Key aspects of electrophysiology include: 1. **Membrane Potential**: Electrophysiologists investigate how the differences in ion concentrations inside and outside cells produce a membrane potential, which is critical for the initiation and propagation of electrical signals.
Action potentials are rapid, temporary changes in the electrical membrane potential of a neuron or muscle cell that enable the transmission of signals within the nervous system and the initiating of muscle contractions. They are fundamental to the functioning of excitable cells such as neurons, muscle fibers, and some endocrine cells. ### Key Features of Action Potentials: 1. **Resting Potential**: In the resting state, neurons have a negative internal charge relative to their external environment, typically around -70 mV.
Cardiac electrophysiology is a branch of medicine that focuses on the electrical activities of the heart and the diagnosis and treatment of heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias). Electrophysiologists, who are specialized cardiologists, study the electrical impulses that trigger heartbeats and coordinate the heart's pumping action. Key aspects of cardiac electrophysiology include: 1. **Understanding Heart Rhythms**: The heart's rhythm is regulated by electrical signals that originate in specialized cells.
Electrophysiologists are specialized cardiologists who focus on diagnosing and treating heart rhythm disorders, known as arrhythmias. They have extensive training in the electrical system of the heart and utilize various diagnostic procedures and therapeutic interventions to manage conditions such as atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia, and other abnormal heart rhythms.
Graded potentials are changes in the membrane potential of a neuron or other excitable cell that vary in size (or "grade") and occur in response to stimuli. These changes are typically localized and can either be depolarizing or hyperpolarizing. ### Key Features of Graded Potentials: 1. **Magnitude**: The amplitude of a graded potential can vary depending on the strength of the stimulus. A stronger stimulus produces a larger potential change.
ANNINE-6plus is a fluorescent dye commonly used in biological and medical research, particularly in the field of cell biology. It is part of the family of merocyanine dyes, which are characterized by their ability to change fluorescence properties in response to the binding of ions or changes in the environment, such as membrane potential.
Amperometry is an electrochemical technique used to measure the current generated by the redox reaction of an analyte (a substance being analyzed) at an electrode as a function of time or applied potential. This technique is often employed in various fields such as chemistry, biochemistry, environmental science, and medicine for detecting and quantifying specific ions or molecules in a solution. In amperometry, a potential is applied to an electrode, and the resulting current is measured.
Anode break excitation (ABE) is a technique used in electrical engineering, specifically in the control of synchronous machines and in the operation of certain types of thyristor-based circuits. ABE involves a temporary interruption of the anode current in thyristors (or similar devices) to control the timing and sequence of the electrical excitation applied to the machine, allowing for smoother operation and better control of its performance.
ArcLight is a genetically encoded fluorescent protein used in neuroscience and cellular biology to study neuronal activity. Developed as a tool for imaging and measuring membrane potential changes in live cells, ArcLight is engineered to provide a response to voltage changes across the cell membrane. When the membrane potential changes due to neuronal activity, ArcLight exhibits a corresponding change in its fluorescence properties. This allows researchers to visualize the electrical activity of neurons in real-time using fluorescence microscopy techniques.
Artificial cerebrospinal fluid (aCSF) refers to a synthetic solution designed to mimic the composition and properties of natural cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which is a clear fluid found in the brain and spinal cord. CSF serves several critical functions, including cushioning the brain, providing buoyancy, and facilitating the exchange of nutrients and waste products between the brain and the bloodstream.
Automated patch clamp is a high-throughput technique used in electrophysiology to study the electrical properties of cells, particularly neurons and other excitable cells. It involves the use of specialized equipment to rapidly and accurately form a tight seal (or "patch") between a glass pipette and the cell membrane, allowing for the measurement of ionic currents that flow through individual ion channels or the entire cell membrane.
BK channels, also known as "Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) receptors" or "BK channels" in the context of ion channels, refer to large conductance potassium (K+) channels that are activated by intracellular calcium ions (Ca2+) and membrane potential. These channels play a crucial role in various physiological processes, including regulating smooth muscle contraction, neuronal excitability, and cardiovascular function.
Ball and chain inactivation is a mechanism by which certain types of ion channels, particularly voltage-gated sodium (Na⁺) channels, become inactive after they have opened in response to a change in membrane potential. This process is crucial for the proper functioning of action potentials in excitable tissues, such as neurons and muscle cells.
The basal electrical rhythm (BER), also known as slow wave activity, refers to the rhythmic electrical activity produced by pacemaker cells in certain tissues of the body, primarily in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. These electrical waves facilitate the coordinated contractions of smooth muscle, which are essential for digestive movements. 1. **Location**: In the GI tract, the BER is primarily generated by specialized cells called interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC), which are located between the layers of the smooth muscle.
The term "bathmotropic" refers to a property related to the excitability of cardiac muscle cells, specifically how these cells respond to stimuli. In the context of cardiac physiology, bathmotropic effects pertain to changes in the excitability of cardiac tissue, influencing how easily the heart muscle can be stimulated to contract. Agents or factors that have bathmotropic effects can enhance or diminish the heart's excitability.
A bioamplifier is an electronic device or system designed to amplify biological signals, which can include electrical signals generated by biological systems such as muscles, nerves, or cells. These signals are typically very weak and need to be amplified to be useful for analysis, monitoring, or control applications. Bioamplifiers are commonly used in various fields, including medical diagnostics, biological research, and biomedical engineering.
Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is a method used to estimate body composition, particularly the proportion of fat mass and lean body mass (which includes muscle, water, and bone). The technique is based on the principle that different tissues in the body conduct electricity differently due to their composition. ### How It Works: 1. **Electrical Current**: A low-level electrical current is passed through the body using electrodes placed on the skin. This is safe and generally painless.
A biosignal is a type of biological signal that represents the physiological activity of living organisms. These signals are generated by various processes in the body and can be captured and analyzed for various purposes, including medical diagnostics, research, and monitoring.
Biothesiometry is a clinical assessment technique used to measure tactile sensitivity and vibratory perception in the skin. It utilizes a specialized device called a biothesiometer, which delivers vibrations at varying frequencies and intensities to different areas of the skin, usually on the feet or hands. The primary purpose of biothesiometry is to evaluate sensory nerve function and detect neuropathies, particularly in conditions such as diabetes, where peripheral neuropathy is common.
The Brain Imaging Data Structure (BIDS) is a standardized format for organizing and sharing neuroimaging data. Developed to facilitate the sharing and analysis of brain imaging datasets, BIDS standardizes how information is structured, labeled, and stored. This helps researchers to easily collaborate and reuse data across different studies and institutions.
The term "bursting" can have different meanings depending on the context in which it is used. Here are a few common interpretations: 1. **Networking and Data Transmission**: In the context of computer networks, bursting often refers to a sudden increase in data transmission. For instance, burst traffic can occur when many users send data packets simultaneously, leading to spikes in network usage. This is often managed through techniques like buffer management or Quality of Service (QoS) to ensure consistent performance.
The cardiac transient outward potassium current, often abbreviated as I_to, is a significant ionic current that plays a critical role in the electrical activity of cardiac myocytes (heart muscle cells). This current is primarily characterized by its transient nature, meaning that it is activated and deactivated quickly during the action potential of cardiac cells. ### Key Features of I_to: 1. **Ion Movement**: I_to primarily involves the movement of potassium ions (K+) out of the cardiac cells.
The term "channelosome" does not appear to be widely recognized in scientific literature or common terminology as of my last update in October 2023. It may refer to a specific concept within a niche field or could be a newly introduced term after my last update.
Charles Antzelevitch is a prominent American cardiologist recognized for his research in the field of cardiac electrophysiology. He has made significant contributions to the understanding of arrhythmias and the mechanisms underlying cardiac electrical activity. Antzelevitch has published extensively in scientific journals and has been involved in the development of various diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for heart rhythm disorders. He is also known for his leadership roles in academic and professional organizations related to cardiology.
Chronaxie is a term used in the field of neurophysiology and biophysics to describe a specific measure related to the excitation of nerve or muscle tissues. It refers to the minimum time duration required for an electrical stimulus of twice the threshold intensity to excite a tissue. In simpler terms, chronaxie helps to quantify the electrical properties of nerve or muscle cells by indicating how quickly and effectively they respond to electrical stimulation.
Clinical electrophysiology is a specialized branch of medicine that focuses on the study and treatment of electrical activities in the heart and nervous system. It plays a crucial role in diagnosing and managing various cardiac and neurological conditions related to abnormal electrical signals. ### Key Areas of Clinical Electrophysiology: 1. **Cardiac Electrophysiology**: - Involves the study of the heart's electrical system and its pathways.
Depolarization-induced suppression of inhibition (DSI) is a neurophysiological phenomenon that occurs in certain types of neurons, particularly in the central nervous system, where an increase in membrane potential (depolarization) leads to a temporary decrease in the effectiveness of inhibitory synaptic transmission.
Depolarizing prepulse is a term often used in the context of neuroscience, particularly in the study of neuronal excitability and action potentials. It refers to a technique where a brief depolarizing voltage is applied to a neuron prior to a stronger stimulus. This prepulse can influence the neuron's responsiveness to subsequent stimuli.
Electrical Impedance Myography (EIM) is a medical diagnostic technique used to assess the health and function of muscle tissue. It involves the measurement of electrical impedance, which is the resistance of muscle tissue to an applied electrical current. This technique is non-invasive and typically involves placing electrodes on the skin surface over the muscle area of interest.
An electrical synapse is a type of synapse that allows direct electrical communication between two neurons. Unlike chemical synapses, which use neurotransmitters to transmit signals across a synaptic cleft, electrical synapses enable the rapid transmission of signals through gap junctions.
Electrochemical skin conductance (ESC) is a biomarker used to measure the electrical properties of the skin, specifically its conductance. It reflects the activity of sweat glands and can provide information about an individual's physiological and emotional state. The measurement is typically obtained using electrodes placed on the skin, which detect changes in the electrical conductance resulting from the presence of sweat. ESC is often linked to the body's autonomic nervous system responses, particularly in relation to stress, arousal, and emotional states.
Electrocorticography (ECoG) is a neurosurgical technique used to measure the electrical activity of the brain. It involves placing electrodes directly on the surface of the cerebral cortex, allowing for high-resolution recordings of neural signals. This technique is often used in clinical contexts, particularly in the evaluation and treatment of epilepsy, as it provides more precise information about brain function compared to non-invasive methods like electroencephalography (EEG).
Electrodermal activity (EDA), also known as skin conductance, refers to changes in the electrical properties of the skin that occur in response to various stimuli, particularly emotional or physiological arousal. It is measured by assessing the skin's electrical conductivity, which varies with moisture levels. When a person experiences stress, excitement, or other emotional states, the sweat glands are activated, leading to increased moisture on the skin and thus affecting its electrical conductance.
Electrodiagnostic medicine is a branch of medicine that involves the use of electrical testing to diagnose and evaluate conditions affecting the nervous system and muscles. The primary techniques used in electrodiagnostic medicine include: 1. **Electromyography (EMG)**: This test measures the electrical activity of muscles at rest and during contraction. It helps in diagnosing conditions such as neuropathies, myopathies, and motor neuron diseases.
An electrogram is a recording that captures the electrical activity of the heart or other organs. It is typically used in the context of cardiology to assess the heart's electrical conduction system and diagnose various heart conditions. Electrograms can be obtained through different methods, such as: 1. **Surface Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG)**: This non-invasive procedure uses electrodes placed on the skin to record the electrical impulses generated by the heart.
Electromyography (EMG) is a diagnostic procedure that assesses the electrical activity of muscles. It involves the use of electrodes—either surface electrodes placed on the skin or needle electrodes inserted into the muscle—to detect the electrical signals produced by muscle fibers during contraction.
Electromyoneurography (EMNG) is a diagnostic technique that combines electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS) to assess the function of muscles and the nerves controlling them. 1. **Electromyography (EMG)**: This part of the test measures the electrical activity of muscles. It evaluates how well muscle fibers respond to nerve signals, helping to identify problems with the muscle itself or the nerve supply to the muscle.
An electroneurogram (ENG) is a diagnostic tool used to measure the electrical activity of nerves. It records the electrical signals produced by nerves as they respond to stimuli, offering insights into the functionality and health of the nervous system. The procedure typically involves placing electrodes on the skin or directly on the nerve to capture these signals. ENGs are often employed in clinical settings to evaluate nerve damage, assess conditions affecting nerve function, and guide treatment decisions.
Electrooculography (EOG) is a technique used to measure the electrical potential difference between the front and back of the human eye. This electrical potential is generated by the movement of the eye muscles and the orientation of the retina. EOG is commonly utilized to track eye movements and assess various conditions related to visual and ocular health.
Electrophysiological techniques for clinical diagnosis refer to a set of diagnostic methods that measure the electrical activity of the body's tissues. These techniques are particularly important in the fields of cardiology, neurology, and other areas of medicine where electrical signals play a crucial role in the function of tissues.
Electrophysiology (EP) study is a medical procedure used to evaluate the electrical activity of the heart and diagnose arrhythmias or other cardiac conditions. During an EP study, a healthcare provider inserts catheters with electrodes through a blood vessel (usually in the groin or neck) into the heart. These electrodes measure the electrical signals in the heart and can induce arrhythmias to understand their mechanisms.
Electrotonic potential refers to the local changes in membrane potential that occur in a neuron or muscle fiber as a result of synaptic activity or the propagation of an electrical signal. It is often associated with the concept of passive electrical properties of cells, particularly in the context of signal transmission along neurons.
Electrotropism is a biological phenomenon where an organism or a part of an organism grows or moves in response to an electric field. This response can be observed in various types of cells, including plant cells, where they may exhibit directional growth toward or away from an applied electric field. In plants, electrotropism can influence cellular processes such as growth, development, and root orientation.
The Epithelial Sodium Channel (ENaC) is a type of ion channel primarily found in the epithelial cells lining the kidneys, lungs, and other tissues. It plays a critical role in the regulation of sodium balance in the body, which is essential for maintaining fluid balance, blood pressure, and overall homeostasis.
Facial electromyography (EMG) is a diagnostic and research technique used to measure the electrical activity of facial muscles. It involves the use of electrodes placed on the skin surface over specific muscles to detect electrical signals generated by muscle contractions. This method is often employed in various fields such as psychology, neurology, and rehabilitation to study muscle function, facial expressions, and emotional responses.
Focused impedance measurement is a technique used primarily in the field of materials science and electrochemistry to assess the electrical properties of materials, especially in relation to their structure and surface characteristics. This method involves applying a small AC voltage to a sample and measuring the resulting current, allowing researchers to derive impedance data across a range of frequencies. The term "focused" typically indicates that the measurements are taken with a specific aim or to analyze a targeted area within the material or system under investigation.
Genetically encoded voltage indicators (GEVIs) are advanced tools used in neuroscience to measure changes in membrane potential across the cell membranes of neurons and other types of cells. Unlike traditional methods that often rely on electrodes or dyes that require external application, GEVIs are genetically encoded proteins that can be expressed within living cells. ### Key Features of GEVIs: 1. **Genetic Encoding**: GEVIs are typically based on fluorescent protein technology.
Graded potentials are small changes in the membrane potential of a neuron or other excitable cell that occur in response to stimuli. Unlike action potentials, which are all-or-nothing responses, graded potentials can vary in magnitude and direction depending on the strength and duration of the stimulus. Key characteristics of graded potentials include: 1. **Magnitude**: The amplitude of a graded potential is proportional to the strength of the stimulus. A stronger stimulus produces a larger graded potential.
The Hexaxial Reference System is primarily a concept used in the context of sports science, biomechanics, and movement analysis. It refers to a coordinate system that allows for the precise measurement and analysis of movements within a three-dimensional space. The term "hexaxial" implies that it involves six axes of motion, often corresponding to different directions or planes of movement.
The history of bioelectricity spans several centuries and involves the intersection of biology, medicine, and the study of electricity. Here are some key milestones in its development: ### Ancient and Early Concepts - **Ancient Egypt and Greece**: The concept of electricity was largely unknown, but early philosophers like Thales of Miletus noted the effects of static electricity from amber.
The term "IK channel" could refer to several different concepts depending on the context, but it is commonly associated with fields like animation, biomechanics, or broadcast media. Here are a few possible interpretations: 1. **Inverse Kinematics (IK) in Animation**: In the context of computer graphics and animation, "IK" often stands for Inverse Kinematics.
Impedance cardiography (ICG) is a non-invasive diagnostic technique used to assess cardiac function and hemodynamics by measuring changes in electrical impedance in the thorax. The principle behind ICG is based on the fact that blood has a different electrical conductivity than surrounding tissues. ### Key Features and Process: 1. **Measurement Technique**: Electrodes are placed on the skin, typically around the neck and chest.
Inward-rectifier potassium channels (often abbreviated as Kir channels) are a type of potassium ion channel that allow potassium ions (K⁺) to flow more easily into the cell than out of it. This property of "inward rectification" is primarily due to the channel's gating mechanisms and its unique biophysical properties.
The term "ionotropic effect" typically refers to the influence of certain substances or signals on the ion channels of cells, particularly in the context of neurotransmission in the nervous system. This effect is primarily associated with ionotropic receptors, which are a type of neurotransmitter receptor that, upon binding with a neurotransmitter, leads to the opening or closing of ion channels.
The length constant, often denoted as \(\lambda\) (lambda), is a key parameter in neuroscience and electrophysiology that describes how electrical signals decay as they propagate along a passive dendrite or axon. It is a measure of how far a signal can travel along a neuron's membrane before it attenuates significantly.
The Lippmann electrometer is a type of sensitive instrument used to measure electric potential (voltage). It is based on the principle of measuring the height of a liquid column in a capillary tube, where the liquid is typically mercury. The device is named after the physicist Walter Lippmann. The basic working principle involves the following steps: 1. **Mercury Column**: The Lippmann electrometer uses a column of mercury contained in a glass tube.
Local field potentials (LFPs) are electrical signals recorded from a specific region of the brain or a similar biological tissue. They represent the summed electrical activity of multiple nearby neurons and are primarily associated with the activity of synaptic potentials, rather than the action potentials of individual neurons. LFPs are measured using microelectrodes that are typically inserted into the tissue.
Low-threshold spikes (LTS) refer to a specific type of action potential observed in certain types of neurons, particularly in the context of the brain and spinal cord. These spikes are characterized by their ability to be elicited by small depolarizing currents, which is in contrast to high-threshold spikes that require a larger depolarization to trigger.
**M current**, often referred to as **M-type current**, is a type of ion current characterized by its dependence on the voltage across the cell membrane and its activation and inactivation kinetics. This current is generally mediated by specific types of potassium channels known as *M channels* or *KCNQ channels*. -M current plays a crucial role in regulating the excitability of neurons and other excitable cells.
Membrane potential refers to the difference in electric potential across a cell membrane due to the distribution of ions inside and outside of the cell. This difference in charge creates a voltage difference, which is crucial for various cellular functions, including the generation and propagation of electrical signals in neurons and muscle cells. The membrane potential is typically measured in millivolts (mV) and is usually negative in a resting state, often around -70 mV in neurons.
The membrane stabilizing effect refers to the ability of certain substances to protect cell membranes and maintain their integrity under various conditions. This effect can be particularly important in biological systems, where membrane integrity is crucial for cellular function, survival, and overall homeostasis. Several factors can contribute to membrane destabilization, including physical stress, oxidative stress, temperature fluctuations, and the presence of harmful substances or toxins.
A Mercury swivel commutator is a type of electrical component used primarily in certain types of electric motors and generators, particularly in applications where low wear and maintenance are desired. The commutator is designed to facilitate the transfer of electrical current between stationary and rotating parts of the machine. In a traditional commutator, segments of conductive material are used to switch the direction of current in the armature windings as they rotate, allowing for continuous motion in one direction.
A microelectrode is a small electrode with a diameter typically in the micrometer range, often used in electrophysiological studies and in various applications in biomedical research, neuroscience, and materials science. Due to their small size, microelectrodes can be inserted into individual cells or tissues, allowing for precise measurements of electrical activity, ion concentrations, or other chemical properties at a very localized level.
A microelectrode array (MEA) is a sophisticated technology used to measure electrical activity from multiple cells or tissues simultaneously. MEAs consist of an arrangement of numerous small electrodes that can interface with biological samples, such as neurons, cardiac cells, or other types of tissues.
Microneurography is a technique used to study the function of peripheral nerves by recording electrical activity from individual nerve fibers. It involves inserting a very fine microelectrode into a peripheral nerve, typically in the leg or arm, to measure the action potentials (nerve impulses) generated by specific nerve fibers. This technique allows researchers and clinicians to gain insights into the sensory and motor functions of nerve fibers, the mechanisms of pain, and the effects of various diseases on nerve function.
Neuronal galvanotropism refers to the phenomenon where neurons exhibit directional growth or movement in response to an electric field. This process is a form of galvanotaxis, a broader term that applies to the movement of various cell types towards or away from an electric current. In the context of neurons, studies have shown that electric fields can influence the orientation and growth of neuronal processes, such as axons and dendrites.
An optokinetic drum is a device used in vision research and clinical settings to study visual perception and eye movements. It typically consists of a cylindrical drum or drum-like structure with patterns or images on its inner surface. The drum rotates, and as it spins, the visual stimuli appear to move in front of the observer's eyes.
Patch-sequencing is a technique that combines patch-clamp electrophysiology with sequencing technologies, allowing researchers to analyze the genetic and molecular characteristics of individual cells while simultaneously measuring their electrical activity. This method is particularly useful in neuroscience and cell biology, as it enables the study of how specific genes and proteins contribute to a cell's functional properties.
Patch clamp is an electrophysiological technique used to measure the ionic currents that flow through individual ion channels or whole cells. It allows researchers to study the electrical properties of excitable cells, such as neurons and muscle cells, as well as non-excitable cells. The technique involves using a glass pipette with a very fine tip that forms a tight seal (often referred to as a "giga-seal") with the cell membrane.
Pharmacological cardiotoxicity refers to the harmful effects that certain drugs can have on the heart and cardiovascular system. This can manifest as various types of cardiac dysfunction, including arrhythmias, heart failure, ischemia, or direct damage to heart tissues. Pharmacological cardiotoxicity can arise from: 1. **Chemotherapeutic Agents**: Certain cancer treatments, such as anthracyclines (e.g.
Phase precession refers to a phenomenon observed in the activity of certain types of neurons, particularly in the hippocampus, where the timing of neuronal firing becomes progressively advanced relative to specific rhythms, such as theta oscillations. This concept is crucial for understanding how the brain encodes spatial and temporal information.
Plateau potentials are a type of sustained depolarization that occurs in certain types of neurons and muscle cells. They are characterized by a prolonged period of depolarization, which makes the cell membrane more positive and can lead to an extended period of action potential firing or muscle contraction. In neurons, plateau potentials are often associated with specific types of excitability and are involved in functions such as rhythm generation in certain circuits (e.g., in neurons of the cardiac pacemaker or certain motor neurons).
A polarized membrane is a type of biological membrane that has a difference in electric charge across its surface, which creates an electric potential known as membrane potential. This phenomenon is particularly significant in the context of nerve and muscle cells, where the polarization of the membrane plays a critical role in the generation and propagation of electrical signals.
Precordial concordance is a term used in cardiology, particularly in the context of electrocardiography (ECG or EKG) assessments. It refers to the observation that the electrical activity of the heart, as represented in the precordial leads (chest leads in an ECG), shows a consistent pattern of activation that aligns or "concords" with the expected anatomical and physiological phenomena of the heart's electrical conduction.
Rashid Massumi is a prominent figure in the field of political theory, communication, and media studies, known for his work on affect theory, media, and the implications of non-human agency. He often explores how affect and emotions influence political and social dynamics. Massumi's work draws on various philosophical influences, including those of Gilles Deleuze, and he often engages with concepts such as perception, embodiment, and the relationship between human and non-human entities.
Receptor potential refers to the graded electrical change that occurs in sensory receptor cells when they are activated by an appropriate stimulus. This change is part of the process of sensory transduction, where an external stimulus (like light, sound, or pressure) is converted into an electrical signal that can be interpreted by the nervous system. When a sensory receptor is stimulated, it typically causes the opening or closing of ion channels in the cell membrane, leading to a change in the membrane potential.
Reversal potential, also known as equilibrium potential, is a concept in electrochemistry and neuroscience that refers to the membrane potential at which the net flow of a specific ion across a cell membrane is zero. In other words, it is the voltage at which the chemical gradient (concentration difference) for that ion is exactly balanced by the electrical gradient (voltage difference) across the membrane, resulting in no net movement of the ion in or out of the cell.
SCN5A is a gene that encodes a sodium channel protein known as the voltage-gated sodium channel alpha subunit, which is primarily involved in the generation and propagation of electrical impulses in the heart and other excitable tissues. This protein is critical for normal cardiac function, as it plays a key role in the depolarization phase of cardiac action potentials.
Single sensillum recording (SSR) is a neurophysiological technique used to study the activity of individual sensory neurons, particularly those found within sensory organs known as sensilla in insects and other arthropods. This technique allows researchers to measure the electrical responses of individual sensory cells when they are stimulated by specific environmental stimuli, such as odors or chemicals.
Slice preparation often refers to a process used in various scientific and industrial contexts, most commonly in biology and materials science. The specific meaning can vary depending on the context. Below are a few interpretations of "slice preparation": 1. **Histology (Biological Context)**: - In histology, slice preparation involves cutting thin sections of biological tissues for microscopic examination.
Sodium channels are a type of ion channel that are primarily responsible for the conduction of sodium ions (Na⁺) across cell membranes. These channels play a crucial role in various physiological processes, particularly in the generation and propagation of electrical signals in excitable tissues, such as neurons and muscle cells.
Spike potential refers to the rapid rise and fall in membrane potential that occurs during the action potential of a neuron or muscle cell. It is characterized by a sudden depolarization followed by repolarization, which allows for the transmission of electrical signals along nerves and muscle fibers. In neurons, the spike potential is initiated when a membrane's resting potential reaches a threshold level due to incoming signals.
Spike sorting is a technique used in neuroscience to analyze and categorize the action potentials, or "spikes," generated by neurons. When neurons communicate, they do so by firing electrical signals, which can be recorded using electrodes. However, multiple neurons can be recorded simultaneously, making it challenging to distinguish the signals coming from individual neurons.
A string galvanometer is an instrument used to measure electric current by detecting the magnetic field produced by the current flowing through a wire. The basic operating principle of a string galvanometer relies on the interaction between the magnetic field and a current-carrying conductor. ### Key Components and Functionality: 1. **Current-Carrying Wire**: A thin and flexible wire, typically held under tension, acts as the conductor through which the current flows.
Tensiomyography (TMG) is a non-invasive diagnostic tool used to assess muscle function and determine muscle contractile properties. It measures the muscle's response to electrical stimulation, providing data on muscle tone, contraction time, relaxation time, and other parameters. In a typical TMG procedure, a small electrical impulse is delivered to the muscle, and specialized sensors placed on the skin record the muscle's contraction and relaxation patterns.
Tetanic contraction, often referred to simply as tetanus, is a type of muscle contraction that occurs when a muscle is stimulated by a series of rapid nerve impulses with little to no time between them. This results in a sustained contraction of the muscle, as the force generated by each individual twitch contraction overlaps and builds up, leading to a stronger and more stable overall contraction.
In biology, a "tetrode" refers to a type of electrode that is used to record electrical activity from multiple neurons simultaneously. The term is commonly used in neurophysiology, particularly in studies involving the brain and nervous system. A tetrode typically consists of four individual electrodes arranged in a configuration that allows for better spatial resolution and the ability to differentiate between the signals of nearby neurons.
As of my last knowledge update in October 2021, Thomas Sinkjær is not widely known or recognized in prominent news, literature, or popular culture. It is possible that he may be a private individual or someone who has gained recognition after my last update.
Threshold potential refers to the critical level of membrane potential that must be reached for an action potential to be initiated in neurons and muscle cells. When a neuron is at rest, its membrane potential is typically around -70 mV to -90 mV. To generate an action potential, the membrane potential needs to depolarize to a certain level, known as the threshold potential, which is usually around -55 mV to -50 mV.
A "trigger zone" can refer to different concepts depending on the context in which it's used. Here are a few interpretations: 1. **Psychology/Therapy**: In mental health, a trigger zone can refer to a specific situation, location, or stimuli that evokes a strong emotional reaction, often related to past trauma or anxiety. Identifying trigger zones is an important part of therapy, as it helps individuals understand their reactions and develop coping strategies.
An Ussing chamber is an experimental device used to study the transport properties of biological membranes, particularly epithelia. It allows researchers to measure the movement of ions, nutrients, and other molecules across a membrane in a controlled environment. The chamber is named after the Danish physiologist Paul Ussing, who developed the technique in the 1950s. The Ussing chamber consists of two half-chambers separated by a membrane (usually a piece of intestinal tissue).
Voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) are a type of ion channel found in the membranes of excitable cells, such as neurons and muscle cells. They open in response to changes in the membrane potential, allowing calcium ions (Ca²⁺) to flow into the cell when the membrane is depolarized.
A voltage-gated potassium channel (Kv channel) is a type of ion channel that plays a crucial role in the generation and propagation of electrical signals in excitable cells, such as neurons and muscle cells. These channels are proteins embedded in the cell membrane that open or close in response to changes in the electrical membrane potential. ### Key Features of Voltage-Gated Potassium Channels: 1. **Voltage Sensitivity**: They are sensitive to the voltage across the cell membrane.
Voltage-sensitive dyes (VSDs) are specialized fluorescent dyes that can be used to measure the electrical activity of membranes, particularly in neurons and other excitable cells. These dyes change their fluorescence properties in response to changes in membrane potential, allowing researchers to visualize and quantify electrical signals in real-time. ### Key Features of Voltage-Sensitive Dyes: 1. **Mechanism**: VSDs typically contain a hydrophobic moiety that embeds within the lipid bilayer of the cell membrane.
Voltage clamp is an experimental technique used in electrophysiology to measure the ionic currents that flow through the membrane of a cell while maintaining a constant membrane potential (voltage). This method allows researchers to explore how different ions move through ion channels and how these currents change in response to various conditions, such as the presence of drugs or changes in ion concentration. **Key Features of Voltage Clamping:** 1.
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