Neuronal signaling is active

• Voltage-gated channels cause action-potential (spike) signaling

  • Rapid Na+ influx causes rising edge
  • Na+ pores deactivate
  • K+ outflux restores membrane potential

• Positive feedback causes spike

  • Voltage-gated channels have gain
  • Na+ influx depolarizes membrane, causing more Na+ influx

• Adaptation disables positive-feedback path gain

  • Channels inactivate

From Kandel, Schwartz, Jessel, Principles of Neural Science, 3rd edn., 1991, pg. 110

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