As a domain expert in cellular and molecular biology, I can explain the process of hyperpolarization. Hyperpolarization occurs when the membrane potential of a cell becomes more negative than its resting potential. This typically happens due to an increase in the concentration gradient of ions across the cell membrane, often as a result of potassium (K⁺) ions moving out of the cell. When this occurs, the cell's membrane potential moves further away from the threshold needed to trigger an action potential. The significance of hyperpolarization lies in its effect on the cell's excitability. A more negative membrane potential makes it less likely for the cell to generate an action potential in response to a stimulus. This is because the cell now requires a stronger stimulus to depolarize its membrane back to the threshold level necessary for an action potential to occur. In the context of neurons, hyperpolarization can be seen as a mechanism to prevent the over-excitation of the neuron, which is crucial for maintaining the proper functioning of neural networks. read more >>

Hyperpolarization is a change in a cell's membrane potential that makes it more negative. It is the opposite of a depolarization. It inhibits action potentials by increasing the stimulus required to move the membrane potential to the action potential threshold.read more >>