Monte Carlo simulation for statistical mechanics model of ion-channel cooperativity in cell membranes.
Voltage-gated ion channels are key molecules for the generation and propagation of electrical signals in excitable cell membranes. The voltage-dependent switching of these channels between conducting and nonconducting states is a major factor in controlling the transmembrane voltage. In this study, a statistical mechanics model of these molecules has been discussed on the basis of a two-dimensional spin model. A new Hamiltonian and a new Monte Carlo simulation algorithm are introduced to simulate such a model. It was shown that the results well match the experimental data obtained from batrachotoxin-modified sodium channels in the squid giant axon using the cut-open axon technique.
Erdem
Riza
R
Department of Physics, Gaziosmanpaşa University, 60250 Tokat, Turkey.
Aydiner
Ekrem
E
D000818:Animals; D001369:Axons / Q000378:metabolism; D001496:Batrachotoxins / Q000378:metabolism; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D002462:Cell Membrane / Q000378:metabolism*; D049832:Decapodiformes; D015640:Ion Channel Gating; D007473:Ion Channels / Q000378:metabolism*; D007700:Kinetics; D008954:Models, Biological; D009010:Monte Carlo Method; D011336:Probability; D015222:Sodium Channels / Q000378:metabolism
D001496:Batrachotoxins; D007473:Ion Channels; D015222:Sodium Channels