Researchers Are Testing Various Modalities to Reduce Glutamate-Induced Excitotoxic Neuronal

Researchers are testing various modalities to reduce glutamate-induced excitotoxic neuronal injury after ischemic stroke.  The investigators record the postsynaptic potential of cortical neurons under various conditions.  The neurons are exposed to glutamate, which causes them to depolarize; excessive depolarization triggers cell death.  The experiment is repeated after altering the electrolyte composition of the extracellular fluid.  When the extracellular magnesium concentration is increased, glutamate-induced neuron depolarization and cell death are decreased.  Which of the following changes in ion conductance explains the improved neuron survival in response to magnesium?

A) Decreased influx of calcium and sodium
B) Decreased influx of chloride and bicarbonate
C) Increased influx of calcium and sodium
D) Increased influx of chloride and bicarbonate
E) Increased influx of magnesium

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