Question 1

What is the Meaning of Repolarization?

Accepted Answer

Repolarization is the essential physiological process where the electrical potential across a cell membrane is restored to its negative resting state following a period of depolarization. This restoration is achieved primarily through the efflux of positively charged ions, predominantly potassium, out of the cell, effectively resetting the membrane for subsequent electrical activity.

Question 2

What is the Context of Repolarization?

Accepted Answer

This process is fundamental to the function of excitable cells throughout the human body, including neurons, skeletal muscle cells, and cardiac myocytes. Repolarization is a critical phase within the action potential cycle, which orchestrates vital functions such as nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and the synchronized beating of the heart.

Question 3

What is the Significance of Repolarization?

Accepted Answer

Accurate and timely repolarization is paramount for the precise propagation of electrical signals, underpinning normal physiological function. Deviations or delays in this process can lead to serious clinical conditions, including cardiac arrhythmias, neurological impairments, and various forms of muscular dysfunction, highlighting its importance in maintaining overall health.

Question 4

What is the Mechanism of Repolarization?

Accepted Answer

The cellular mechanism of repolarization primarily involves the activation and opening of voltage-gated potassium channels, allowing potassium ions to flow rapidly out of the intracellular space. This outward movement of positive charge reverses the membrane potential back towards its negative resting value, counteracting the preceding influx of sodium or calcium ions during the depolarization phase.

Question 5

What is the Application of Repolarization?

Accepted Answer

Clinically, the study of repolarization is vital for interpreting diagnostic tools such as the electrocardiogram (ECG), where the T-wave specifically represents ventricular repolarization, offering crucial insights into cardiac electrical stability. Therapeutic interventions often target ion channels involved in repolarization to manage conditions like hypertension, angina, and various forms of cardiac dysrhythmia.

Question 6

What is the Metric of Repolarization?

Accepted Answer

The integrity of repolarization is commonly assessed using electrophysiological measurements, with the electrocardiogram (ECG) being a primary tool for cardiac evaluation. Specific parameters like the QT interval on an ECG directly quantify the duration of ventricular repolarization, providing a measurable indicator of cardiac electrical health and potential vulnerabilities.

Question 7

What is the Risk of Repolarization?

Accepted Answer

Disruptions to the normal repolarization process, frequently caused by electrolyte imbalances such as hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia, or by certain pharmacological agents, can prolong the repolarization period. This prolongation significantly increases the susceptibility to life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias, notably Torsades de Pointes, necessitating careful clinical monitoring and management.

Repolarization

Meaning

Context

Significance

Mechanism

Application

Metric

Risk

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