Ion Channels

• My biology is pretty weak, so feel free to jump in.
• Neurons are of course cells, and its electrical potential is important for how and when it communicates.
• Leak is managed by a channel that is always open. That is a hole in the cell membrane.
• If all is equal, the leak channels may allow the neuron to return to its resting potential.
• There are also gated channels, both voltage triggered channels and neurotransmitter triggered channels.
• The synaptic cleft is a space between the presynaptic neuron and the post synaptic neuron.
• When a neuron fires, it has voltage gated channels that open. Some release calcium ions, some allow sodium ions to flow in.
• It also has voltage gated channels that close, allowing potassium ions to flow in.