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Action potential

Definition(s)

A rapid self-propagating change in the electrical potential across a neuron, gland, or muscle fiber membrane primarily due to a sudden influx of sodium ions followed by an efflux of potassium ions.

Definition from: CRISP Thesaurus via Unified Medical Language SystemThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. at the National Library of Medicine

Abrupt changes in the membrane potential that sweep along the cell membrane of excitable cells in response to excitation stimuli.

Definition from: MeSH via Unified Medical Language SystemThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. at the National Library of Medicine

See also Understanding Medical Terminology.

 
Published: May 13, 2013