Ion channels are biological nanotubes that are formed by membrane proteins. Because ion channels regulate all electrical activities in living cells, understanding their mechanisms at a molecular level is a fundamental problem in biology. This book deals with recent breakthroughs in ion-channel research that have been brought about by the combined effort of experimental biophysicists and computational physicists, who together are beginning to unravel the story of these exquisitely designed biomolecules. With chapters by leading experts, the book is aimed at researchers in nanodevices and biosensors, as well as advanced undergraduate and graduate students in biology and the physical sciences.
Key Features
- Presents the latest information on the molecular mechanisms of ion permeation through membrane ion channels
- Uses schematic diagrams to illustrate important concepts in biophysics
- Contains a CD-ROM with computer programs used for making theoretical calculations, as well as video animations illustrating various features of ion channels
- Written by leading researchers in the area of ion channel investigations