Hyperpolarization (biology)

In neuroscience, hyperpolarization is the event a neuron undergoes when its membrane potential grows more negative with respect to the extracellular solution. Hyperpolarization can be caused by the flow of positively charged ions (such as potassium) out of the cell, or by the influx of negatively charged ions (such as chloride). Compare to depolarization.

Related topics

• membrane potential