Physics of ion channels.
We review the basic physics involved in transport of ions across membrane channels in cells. Electrochemical forces that control the diffusion of ions are discussed both from microscopic and macroscopic perspectives. A case is made for use of Brownian dynamics as the minimal phenomenological model that provides a bridge between experiments and more fundamental theoretical approaches. Application of Brownian and molecular dynamics methods to channels with known molecular structures is discussed.
Department of Theoretical Physics, Research School of Physical Sciences, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 0200 Australia.
Serdar
S
Kuyucak
Turgut
T
Bastug
Brownian dynamics; continuum theories; ion channels; molecular dynamics; permeation models