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Action Potential

Action potential

A rapid, regenerative change in membrane voltage that carries signals along excitable cells such as neurons.

Overview

EXPLORE BY LEVEL

A neuron can send a brief electrical signal along its membrane. The signal happens when ion channels open and charged particles move.

Quick Facts

AT A GLANCE
TopicCell Biology

Follow the Connections

See how Action Potential links to other biological records.

Open network
Cell typeNeuroncan generateProcessGraded Potentialcan reach threshold to initiateMolecular complexVoltage-Gated Ion Channeldepends onProcessSynaptic Transmissioncan trigger
All 4 Structured Connections
Neuron · Cell typeCAN GENERATE →Action Potential · Process
Graded Potential · ProcessCAN REACH THRESHOLD TO INITIATE →Action Potential · Process
Action Potential · ProcessDEPENDS ON →Voltage-Gated Ion Channel · Molecular complex
Action Potential · ProcessCAN TRIGGER →Synaptic Transmission · Process

Recommended Reading

Trusted references for learning more about Action Potential.

textbookThe Action PotentialOpenStax Anatomy and Physiology 2e textbookCommunication Between NeuronsOpenStax Anatomy and Physiology 2e
Research Claims

Action potentials vary across neuron types and compartments. Propagation, refractory behavior, channel composition, and energetic costs are context-dependent; they are not literal currents of electrons along the axon.