A single neuron receives multiple excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) and inhibitory postsynaptic potentials (IPSPs) simultaneously at various locations on its dendrites and soma. Which of the following statements best describes how the neuron integrates these signals to determine whether to fire an action potential?
-
A
The integrated sum of all EPSPs and IPSPs at the axon hillock must depolarize the membrane to the threshold potential.
-
B
An action potential is fired if any single EPSP is strong enough to exceed the threshold potential on its own.
-
C
The neuron fires if the total number of incoming EPSPs is greater than the total number of incoming IPSPs, regardless of their magnitude.
-
D
Only EPSPs that arrive at the presynaptic terminal can trigger an action potential in the postsynaptic neuron.