Abstract
A physical model is proposed for excitable cell membranes based on the conformational transitions of the membrane macromolecules. It is assumed that the electric field in the membrane produces changes in the conformation of the macromolecules as a result of which channels are opened or closed transmitting into the cell and from the cell sodium and potassium ions with change in the affinity of the channels for these ions. A set of equations is derived describing the process of excitation of the membrane and its solution is qualitatively analysed. It is shown that the model reflects the main features of nervous excitation.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 70-76 |
| Number of pages | 7 |
| Journal | Biophysics |
| Volume | 18 |
| Issue number | 1 |
| State | Published - Dec 1 1973 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Biophysics