Which ion channels are involved in maintaining resting membrane potential?

The maintenance of resting membrane potential is primarily influenced by the permeability of the cell membrane to various ions, specifically potassium (K⁺) and sodium (Na⁺). At rest, the cell membrane is more permeable to potassium ions due to the presence of numerous potassium channels. These channels allow potassium to flow out of the cell, leading to a more negative charge inside relative to the outside.

While potassium channels play a significant role, sodium channels also contribute to the resting membrane potential, albeit to a lesser extent. Although sodium permeability is relatively low during the resting state, sodium ions still have a tendency to leak into the cell. This slight influx of sodium along with the efflux of potassium is crucial in establishing the electrochemical gradient that defines the resting membrane potential.

Calcium channels primarily play roles in signaling pathways and muscle contractions but are not significant in maintaining the resting membrane potential. The resting potential is predominantly shaped by the balance between the outward movement of potassium and the inward movement of sodium. Therefore, both potassium and sodium channels work in concert to stabilize the resting membrane potential, making the option that includes both K and Na channels the correct choice.