Resting Membrane Potential The resting membrane potential is a fundamental aspect of the resting state of cells and tissues. It is a fixed, stable electrica...
Resting Membrane Potential
The resting membrane potential is a fundamental aspect of the resting state of cells and tissues. It is a fixed, stable electrical potential across the cell membrane that exists even in the absence of any external stimuli.
The resting membrane potential is typically negative, with a negative charge across the cell membrane. This means that there are more negatively charged ions (such as chloride ions) inside the cell than positively charged ions (such as potassium ions).
The resting membrane potential is maintained by a protein complex called the sodium-potassium pump. This pump continuously moves sodium ions out of the cell and potassium ions into the cell, creating a difference in the concentration of these ions across the membrane.
The resting membrane potential is essential for the proper functioning of cells and tissues. It allows cells to maintain their structural integrity, perform metabolic processes, and communicate with other cells. Dysregulation of the resting membrane potential can lead to cell death or disease