What is the typical electrical gradient of a resting cell?

A typical resting membrane potential for most cells, particularly neurons, is approximately -70 mV. This value reflects the electrical gradient established across the cell membrane due to the differential distribution of ions, primarily sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), chloride (Cl-), and organic anions.

The resting potential is largely maintained by the sodium-potassium pump, which actively transports three sodium ions out of the cell and two potassium ions into the cell, creating a negative charge inside relative to the outside. This gradient is crucial for the conduction of electrical impulses. While some specialized cells may have different resting potentials, -70 mV is considered the standard reference point, as it results from the balance of ion movements and the permeability of the membrane to these ions.

Values like -60mV or -90mV represent different cell types or specific physiological states, but they do not reflect the typical resting potential most commonly observed in neurons and many other cells.