Leakage channel

Definition

Leakage channels are specialized protein structures in neuronal membranes that allow ions to passively flow across the membrane, following their concentration gradient. These channels help maintain the resting membrane potential and contribute to the neuron's ability to generate action potentials.

Related terms

Resting Membrane Potential: The electrical charge difference across the neuronal membrane when the neuron is not actively sending signals.

Action Potential: A rapid change in membrane potential that occurs when a neuron sends information down its axon.

Ion Gradient: The difference in ion concentration across a membrane, which drives passive transport through leakage channels and other mechanisms