Question

At resting potential, does Na+ pass through the NMDA or AMPA receptor? Why?

Answer 1

At resting potential, Na+ does not pass through either the NMDA or AMPA receptor. The NMDA receptor is activated by glutamate binding, but only after depolarization removes inhibitory Mg2+. Once the Mg2+ is removed, Ca²+ can enter the cell. The AMPA receptor allows Na+ to pass through when it is activated by glutamate binding.

Step-by-step explanation:

The resting potential is the membrane potential of a neuron when it is not being stimulated. At resting potential, Na+ does not pass through either the NMDA or AMPA receptor. The NMDA receptor is activated by glutamate binding, but only after depolarization removes inhibitory Mg2+. Once the Mg2+ is removed, Ca²+ can enter the cell. The AMPA receptor, on the other hand, allows Na+ to pass through when it is activated by glutamate binding. Therefore, at resting potential, Na+ does not pass through either the NMDA or AMPA receptor.