A neuron is poisoned with the chemical ouabain which is an i

A neuron is poisoned with the chemical, ouabain, which is an inhibitor of the Na⁺-K⁺ ATPase. Explain what would happen to the resting membrane potential (RMP) of the cell (will it depolarize, hyperpolarize or remain the same). In your answer, ¹identify the three factors that determine RMP in a neuron, ²identify whether each factor causes membrane potential to be more or less negative, and ³explain whether or not ouabain would affect each factor.  

Solution

A neuron is poisoned with the chemical, ouabain, which is an inhibitor of the Na⁺-K⁺ ATPase. Explain what would happen to the resting membrane potential (RMP) of the cell, (will it depolarize, hyperpolarize or remain the same).

Cardiac glycosides such as ouabian inhibits Na⁺-K⁺ ATPase on the axon of a neuron result in \"high influx of Na+ into the cell s& efflux of K+\" finally cause \"depolarization of resting membrane potential (RMP) & equilibrium potential for K+ is more positive. These events are leading to more positive RMP

In your answer,

¹identify the three factors that determine RMP in a neuron, 2. identify whether each factor causes membrane potential to be more or less negative,

The Ion gradients across the axonal membrane ---> causes more negative nature of RMP if the more movement Na+ out of the cells and K+ into the cells

The amplitude of action potential --> higher the rate of depolarization due to more Na+ influx is leading to more positive RMP

The concentration changes of ions that has meticulous impact on the equilibrium potential for potassium & sodium --> more influx of Na+ & efflux of K+ is leading to \"positive RMP\"

³explain whether or not ouabian would affect each factor

Yes, ouabian can inhibit potentially axonal Na⁺-K⁺ ATPase as a result high influx of Na+ & efflux of K+ is leading to \"positive RMP\"