Ion Channel
Ion channels are pore-forming proteins that help establish and control the voltage gradient across the plasma membrane of cells (see membrane potential) by allowing the flow of ions down their electrochemical gradient. They are present in the membranes that surround all biological cells. The study of ion channels involves many scientific techniques such as voltage clamp electrophysiology (in particular patch clamp), immunohistochemistry, and RT-PCR.
Read more about Ion Channel: Basic Features, Biological Role, Diversity, Detailed Structure, Diseases of Ion Channels, History, The Ion Channel in Fine Art
Famous quotes containing the word channel:
“There may sometimes be ungenerous attempts to keep a young man down; and they will succeed too, if he allows his mind to be diverted from its true channel to brood over the attempted injury. Cast about, and see if this feeling has not injured every person you have ever known to fall into it.”
—Abraham Lincoln (1809–1865)