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Nervous System

Neuron Function

How do excitatory neurotransmitters differ from inhibitory neurotransmitters?

Neurotransmitters are classified as excitatory or inhibitory according to their effects on postsynaptic membranes. A neurotransmitter is called excitatory if activation of the receptor causes depolarization of the membrane and promotes action potential generation. A neurotransmitter is called inhibitory if the activation of the receptor causes hyperpolarization and depresses action potential generation.