A voltage-gated sodium channel in a neuron's axon opens, initiating an action potential. Which consequence follows from a prolonged inactivation of these sodium channels during this action?

💡 Explanation

Prolonged inactivation of sodium channels prevents them from reopening quickly after repolarization because they remain in an inactivated state. Therefore, the neuron's ability to fire subsequent action potentials is reduced, and the firing frequency declines, rather than increasing neurotransmitter release or enhancing repolarization.

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