Gradual Drifting of Membrane Potential Toward Threshold in Autorhythmic Cells

Question

Gradual drifting of membrane potential toward threshold in autorhythmic cells is termed a
A) receptor potential.
B) pacemaker potential.
C) gated potential.
D) ligand-gated potential.
E) action potential.

Accepted Answer

The gradual drifting of membrane potential toward threshold in autorhythmic cells is called the pacemaker potential. This potential is caused by a slow influx of sodium ions and is responsible for setting the rhythm of the heart. The other choices are not correct because they refer to different types of potentials or mechanisms.