Question

Postsynaptic inhibition is produced by a. depolarization of the postsynaptic membrane. b. hyperpolarization of the postsynaptic membrane. c. axoaxonic synapses. d. long-term potentiation.

Short answer

The correct option that describes the production of postsynaptic inhibition is: b. Hyperpolarization of the postsynaptic membrane.

Step-by-step solution

Key concepts

To choose the correct option, the student needs to understand the following key concepts related to synaptic transmission and inhibition: 1. Depolarization: A process in which the membrane potential of a cell becomes more positive, making the cell more likely to generate an action potential. 2. Hyperpolarization: A process in which the membrane potential of a cell becomes more negative, making the cell less likely to generate an action potential. 3. Axoaxonic synapses: A type of synapse in which the axon of one neuron sends a signal directly onto the axon of another neuron. 4. Long-term potentiation: A persistent strengthening of synapses based on recent patterns of activity. Step 2: Assessing each option

Option a

Depolarization of the postsynaptic membrane: As mentioned earlier, depolarization makes a cell more likely to generate an action potential. This would lead to activation, not inhibition, of the postsynaptic neuron.

Option b

Hyperpolarization of the postsynaptic membrane: Hyperpolarization makes a cell less likely to generate an action potential. This process reduces the neuron's excitability, thus causing postsynaptic inhibition.

Option c

Axoaxonic synapses: These synapses play a role in modulating the strength of signals that neurons receive. While they can be involved in both inhibition and activation, they do not specifically define or describe the process of postsynaptic inhibition.

Option d

Long-term potentiation: This strengthening of synapses is mainly related to learning and memory processes. It does not specifically involve postsynaptic inhibition. Step 3: Choosing the correct option

Correct option

Based on the understanding of the key concepts and assessment of each option, the correct option that describes the production of postsynaptic inhibition is: b. Hyperpolarization of the postsynaptic membrane.