Potassium Channel ion rate and Gradient

In summary, the conversation discusses a potassium channel's function of filtering out potassium ions at a maximum rate of 100,000,000 ions per second. The common concentration of potassium inside a cell is 100 mM and outside is 5 mM, resulting in a ratio of 553 water molecules to 1 potassium ion inside and 11,060 water molecules to 1 ion outside. The conversation also considers the effect of the channel acting as a sieve on the local concentrations of potassium inside and outside the cell.
  • #1
somasimple
Gold Member
766
5
Hi All,
A potassium channel is designed to filter out potassium ions at a maximum rate of 100,000,000 ions s-1
A common concentration (cell's interior) of potassium is 100 mM and 5 mM outside.
This means there is 553 water molecules for 1 potassium ion inside (55.3/0.100) and 11,060 water molecules for a ion outside (55.3/0.005).
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=247778

If the channel acts as a sieve then what happen to the local concentrations, inside and outside?

ref:
rate =>
http://www.pdb.org/pdb/static.do?p=education_discussion/molecule_of_the_month/pdb38_1.html
water =>
http://www.pdb.org/pdb/static.do?p=education_discussion/molecule_of_the_month/pdb38_4.html

ps: local concentration (concentration that exists just around the channel ~ few nm)
 
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  • #2
http://hypography.com/forums/biology/22734-potassium-channel-ion-rate-and-gradient.html
 

Related to Potassium Channel ion rate and Gradient

1. What is a Potassium Channel ion rate?

A Potassium Channel ion rate refers to the speed at which potassium ions move through a potassium channel, a specialized protein channel found in cell membranes. This rate is important for regulating the electrical activity of cells and maintaining the proper balance of potassium ions inside and outside of cells.

2. How is the Potassium Channel ion rate regulated?

The Potassium Channel ion rate is regulated by various factors, including the concentration of potassium ions, voltage changes across the cell membrane, and the presence of specific molecules or drugs that can bind to and alter the function of the channel.

3. What is a Potassium Channel ion gradient?

A Potassium Channel ion gradient refers to the difference in concentration of potassium ions on either side of a cell membrane. This gradient is created by the movement of potassium ions through the potassium channel and is essential for maintaining proper cellular function.

4. How does the Potassium Channel ion gradient affect cellular function?

The Potassium Channel ion gradient is crucial for many cellular processes, including nerve and muscle function, hormone secretion, and cell signaling. It is also important for maintaining the osmotic balance of cells and regulating cell volume.

5. What role do Potassium Channel ion rates and gradients play in disease?

Changes in Potassium Channel ion rates and gradients have been linked to various diseases, including heart arrhythmias, epilepsy, and diabetes. Defects in potassium channels can lead to disruptions in cellular function and contribute to the development of these and other disorders.

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