The Significance of Sodium-Potassium Pump (Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase) in Neural Signaling

Abstract

Neural signaling is the significant process that allows the human brain to pass down cell signals across the body. The neurons inhibit in the brain and pass down information from the axons on one neuron to the dendrites on another. This process is enabled through the concentration gradient regulating effect of the sodium/ potassium pump (the Na/ K pump). Facilitating the flow of Na+ and K+ions, the concentration gradient generated creates an action potential. The neurons open and close their voltage gated channels to change voltage potentials, de- and repolarise local membranes and secrete neurotransmitters. The series of processes collectively allows the transmission of information through the human body (Stillwell 431). Understanding the process of neural signaling brings new insights into how our brains communicate information to our body and essentially dictates our day to day life.