Question

The activation of an inwardly rectifying K+ channel will cause a(n):

a) excitory postsynaptic potential

b) neurons membrane to remain in at a resting potential

c) inhibitory postsynaptic potential

d) G-protein to become activated

Answer 1

b) neurons membrane to remain in at a resting potential

Explanation: inwardly rectifying K+ channels support the flow of positively charged K+ ions into the cell, pushing the membrane potential back to the resting potential. These are lipid gated channels. This channel passes current (positive charge) more easily in the inward direction (into the cell) than in the outward direction (out of the cell).  inwardly rectifying K+ channels support the flow of positively charged K+ ions into the cell, pushing the membrane potential back to the resting potential from hyperpolarized state.