A Brownian Dynamics Analysis of Ion Movement in Membrane Channels

The purpose of this thesis is to review and extend the theory of ion transport through membrane channel. A review of previous theory is presented which includes both Nernst-Planck and Eyring Rate theory approaches. The predictions and assumptions of the two theories are discussed and a unified derivation of both from a more fundamental stochastic theory is presented. That more fundamental stochastic theory is based on the Langevin equation. A simulation technique based on this equation is presented. The technique called Brownian dynamics is then used to study ion transport through membrane channels. Four cases are considered: (1) no ion-ion interaction, no channel structure; (2) no ion-ion interaction, channel structure present; (3) ion-ion interaction, no channel structure; (4) ion-ion interaction, channel structure present. A detailed discussion of the simulation is given with an indication of possible future improvements. The Brownian dynamic approach illustrates nicely the shortcomings of the Nernst-Planck and Eyring theory approaches.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Physiology

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2014

Author dc:creator

• Cooper, Kimbal Edward

• Biology, Animal Physiology

Identifier

(UMI)AAI8409899

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/71425