What are ion channels?

ion channels are found in cell membranes of all biological cells. The channels consist of proteins that create pores in the plasma membrane. The pores allow ions that cannot pass directly through the cell membrane, travel in and out of the cells. Most of the channels are more than one protein and are actually complexes of proteins found in the membrane. The ion has either a negative or positive charge depending on whether there are more electrons or protons. Phosopholipid double -layer, which forms the cell membrane, has its own charge and actually acts as a barrier for ions that pass it freely. That is why ion channels are necessary in cell membranes.

ion channels act as electrical insulators and provide the way to ions to pass either or from the cell. Each ion channel acts as a catalyst in a process that moves one side of the cell membrane to the other. The channel may be open or closed, and the transition of the EuropeanZI two states occur when the ion is tied to the right place on the ion channel.

The change between the open and closed state of the ion channel is referred to as a gate. External factors play a role in whether the gate is open or closed. There are different groups of ion channels and can be grouped according to what physical and chemical external factors play a role in opening and closing the gate.

Some ion channels are "gates of ligand" and they opened and closed when a ligand or a chemical messenger, such as a neurotransmitter, binds to the receptor on the channel. Ion channels The voltage gate is open or closed if the difference in the difference in electrical potential - or voltage - surrounding the channel. This species is most common in the nerva muscle cell. The second messenger-brushed ion channels have their activity a modulated group of proteins called G-Proteins. Mechanosensitive channels JSOU stimulated by external mechanical stimuli, such as touch and change in osmotic pressure.

and also be activated by external modulators, ion channels can also be selective in terms of which ions pass through the channel. The shape, size and charge of the ion can affect whether the channel opens or closes and allows movement through the cell membrane. Common examples of channels specific for ions include potassium channels, chloride channels, sodium channels and calcium channels.