Abstract
Describing the function of ion channels poses a big challenged in biochemistry and biophysics. One approach to this problem is the application of Poisson-Nernst-Planck (PNP) theory. In practice, applying PNP theory involves creating a computational model of the ion channel and generating a numerical solution of differential equations that describes ion transport and electrostatic interactions. The PNP Cyclic Peptide Ion Channel Model is a simulation tool designed to offer an integrated approach to this important problem in bionanotechnology by demonstrating and explaining the application of PNP theory in a way that is accessible to students at an upper undergraduate level. The program interface was made using the free Rapid Application Infrastructure (Rappture) software, a graphical user interface designed specifically for Web-based applications, made available by the Network for Computational Nanotechnology (NCN). A free version of the PNP Cyclic Peptide Ion Channel Model for use in the simulation of ion transport properties for a model ion channel structure that has been the subject of recent experiments has been introduced.
Original language | English (US) |
---|---|
Pages (from-to) | 744-748 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Journal of Chemical Education |
Volume | 85 |
Issue number | 5 |
State | Published - May 1 2008 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Chemistry(all)
- Education