The resting membrane potential of the ventricular myocardium is within which range?

The resting membrane potential of the ventricular myocardium is within which range?

• A. -60 to -70 mV
• B. -80 to -90 mV
• C. -90 to -100 mV
• D. -110 to -120 mV

Answer: (C)

The resting membrane potential of ventricular myocytes is determined mainly by potassium leak conductance, so the voltage rests close to the potassium equilibrium potential. Because of this strong K+ influence, the ventricular resting potential typically lies around -90 to -100 mV, with some variation from factors like extracellular potassium, temperature, or acid-base status. This deep negative value contrasts with nodal tissue, which rests more depolarized (around -60 to -70 mV), helping to distinguish ventricular excitability and ensure a sharp, rapid upstroke during depolarization.

The resting membrane potential of ventricular myocytes is determined mainly by potassium leak conductance, so the voltage rests close to the potassium equilibrium potential. Because of this strong K+ influence, the ventricular resting potential typically lies around -90 to -100 mV, with some variation from factors like extracellular potassium, temperature, or acid-base status. This deep negative value contrasts with nodal tissue, which rests more depolarized (around -60 to -70 mV), helping to distinguish ventricular excitability and ensure a sharp, rapid upstroke during depolarization.