Posted by Course Objective: Explain how neurons carry an electrical charge
This short comic explains how an action potential is used in a neuron to cause a sudden clench to an individual’s hand who has a condition known as dystonia. This comic will demonstrate how much like roads neurons allow for energy to be carried throughout the body in order for multiple different functions, such as movement.
To best understand this comic please read right to left.
An abstract of the STEAM Project: The Courier
I have demonstrated by use of a man riding a motorcycle down a highway how a neuron fires in order for muscle contraction to occur in the hand. What I have brought into attention is how in some cases the neurons storing action potential misfires causing unwanted muscle contraction hence a twitch to occur.
Our neuron of focus is motor neuron, a multipolar cell located in the CNS, composed of cell bodies called dendrites. The axon, attached to a cell body is where action potential flows down to the axon terminal which causes another neutron to receive impulses via their dendrites. These neurons are highly excitable which causes their resting potential through concentration of charged ions causing de/polarization to occur. It is then sent down along the axon from which the next neuron becomes excited, until the desired limb has carried out function.
Dystonia is a condition that can be diagnosed at various levels and can affect anyone at any stage. It can be caused by a lack of oxygen to the brain, medication use or even brain injury, especially a damage in the basal ganglia; causing processing of neurotransmitters at incorrect moments hence misfiring of neurons which causes occurrences such as cramping, uncontrollable eye blinking, etc. Dystonia is third most common movement disorder in the USA. The nervous system is a fragile and component and plays a huge role. It is complex in its methods of storing and using energy.
Finally, this is wonderful paper and enjoyable to read and make one understand the concept very well. Good work Cynthia Bridgers,