A Geometric Comparison of Single Chain Multi-State Models of Ion Channel Gating

摘要: Multi-state models of ion channel gating have been used extensively, but choosing optimally small yet sufficiently complex to describe particular experimental data remains a difficult task. In order provide some insight into appropriate model selection, this paper presents basic results about the behavior solutions multi-state models, particularly those arranged in chain formation. Some properties eigenvalues and eigenvectors constant-rate are presented. A geometric description three-state is given and, particular, differences between equivalent an Hodgkin-Huxley with identical rates analyzed. One distinguishing feature these two types systems that decay from open state dominated by most negative eigenvalue while rate displays mix modes over all eigenvalues.