Advanced Technical IVT

miniature end-plate potential

Also written as: MEPP — miniature end-plate potential

Spontaneous small electrical potentials recorded at the neuromuscular junction representing single acetylcholine vesicle release.

Full Definition

Miniature end-plate potentials (MEPPs) are spontaneous electrical events occurring at the neuromuscular junction when individual acetylcholine vesicles are released from nerve terminals. These small potentials, typically 0.5-1 mV in amplitude, occur randomly and provide insight into presynaptic function. MEPPs are increased in frequency by calcium and decreased in conditions affecting vesicle release. In clinical neuromuscular medicine, MEPP analysis helps differentiate presynaptic from postsynaptic disorders and is particularly valuable in diagnosing congenital myasthenic syndromes.

Usage

Usage note: Capitalize when using the acronym MEPP; use lowercase for the full term unless beginning a sentence.

In Context

"The reduced MEPP frequency suggested a presynaptic defect in neurotransmitter release." — Electrophysiology report
"Miniature end-plate potentials were recorded to assess quantal acetylcholine release." — Research protocol

Also known as

MEPP miniature potential spontaneous end-plate potential

Contrasted with

end-plate potential compound muscle action potential

Don't confuse with

end-plate potential fibrillation potential positive sharp wave

Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome ← Back to glossary Mitochondrial myopathy