Cell Membrane Applications

[Ashwin Babu 1I]

How can we use the Nernst equation to calculate membrane potentials of neurons, and how can this be extrapolated to make conclusions about neural action-potential diagrams? Additionally, how does modifying each of the Nernst equation variables in a neuron affect its physiology?

[Nadia Nichol]

The Nernst equation calculates the electrical charge across a neuron's membrane using provided ion concentrations some of examples of this can be potassium and salt (sodium). This information then helps to predict the cell's resting state and how neurons are fired in the brain, thus gaining insight into their interactions with each other. Altering membrane permeability or the ion concentrations may change how neurons behave this can interrupt or change the way signals are sent.

[Sophia Lim 2A]

The Nernst equation provides a framework for understanding the factors that contribute to the resting membrane potential of neurons and how alterations in ion concentrations, temperature, and ion valence can affect neuronal physiology, including action potential generation and propagation.