Ion channels: Structure and Function

This lecture covers the structure and function of ion channels, which are transmembrane proteins forming aqueous pores with alpha helices. The patch-clamp technique, developed by Neher and Sakmann, allows the measurement of single channel currents. Ion channels rapidly change conformation between open and closed states, with their open probability being a key feature. The lecture also discusses ion selectivity, single channel conductance, transmembrane currents, and the difference between ion channels and transporters.