Voltage-gated ion channels
Voltage-gated ion channels (pronunciation: vohl-tij-gey-ted ahy-on chan-ls) are a class of transmembrane proteins that allow ions to pass through the channel pore. Their gating mechanism is controlled by changes in the electrical membrane potential near the channel. The most common types of voltage-gated ion channels are potassium, sodium, calcium, and chloride channels.
Etymology
The term "voltage-gated ion channels" is derived from their unique characteristic of opening and closing in response to changes in membrane potential. The term "ion" refers to the charged particles that pass through these channels, while "channel" refers to the pathway through which these ions move.
Types of Voltage-gated Ion Channels
There are several types of voltage-gated ion channels, each allowing a specific type of ion to pass through. These include:
- Voltage-gated potassium channels (Kv): These channels allow potassium ions to pass through, and are crucial for the repolarization of the cell membrane after an action potential.
- Voltage-gated sodium channels (Nav): These channels allow sodium ions to pass through, and are crucial for the depolarization phase of an action potential.
- Voltage-gated calcium channels (Cav): These channels allow calcium ions to pass through, and are crucial for the release of neurotransmitters at the synapse.
- Voltage-gated chloride channels (Clv): These channels allow chloride ions to pass through, and are crucial for maintaining the resting membrane potential.
Function
Voltage-gated ion channels play a crucial role in the electrical signaling of neurons. They are responsible for generating and propagating action potentials, which are the electrical signals that neurons use to communicate with each other. They also play a role in muscle contraction and the release of hormones and neurotransmitters.
Related Terms
See Also
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