intrinsic excitability
A neuron's inherent tendency to generate action potentials in response to synaptic input.
Full Definition
Intrinsic excitability refers to the fundamental electrical properties of a neuron that determine how readily it will fire action potentials in response to synaptic inputs. This property depends on the complement and distribution of voltage-gated ion channels in the neuronal membrane, including sodium, potassium, and calcium channels. Intrinsic excitability can be modulated by various factors including neuromodulators, activity-dependent changes in channel expression, and pathological conditions. Changes in intrinsic excitability represent an important form of neural plasticity that complements synaptic plasticity mechanisms.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from synaptic excitability, which depends on presynaptic factors and synaptic strength.
In Context
- "The researchers measured intrinsic excitability using whole-cell patch clamp recordings from pyramidal neurons." — Electrophysiology methods
- "Chronic stress exposure led to decreased intrinsic excitability in hippocampal CA1 neurons." — Stress neurobiology study