inhibitory postsynaptic potential

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inhibitory postsynaptic potential (IPSP) The electric potential that is generated in a postsynaptic neuron when an inhibitory neurotransmitter (such as gamma-aminobutyric acid) is released into the synapse and causes a slight increase in the potential difference across the postsynaptic membrane (hyperpolarization). This makes the neuron less likely to transmit an impulse. Compare excitatory postsynaptic potential.