Why does the action potential propagate in one direction

Because the sodium channels have a refractory period following activation, during which they cannot open again. This ensures that the action potential is propagated in a specific direction along the axon. Sodium (Na+) ions flow in, potassium (K+) ions flow out, and we get an electrochemical gradient flowing down the length of the cell. ... Therefore, nerve impulses cannot travel in the opposite direction, because nerve cells only have neurotransmitter storage vesicles going one way, and receptors in one place.