Biomembrane electrochemistry

The fundamental membrane processes of living cells are electrical in nature. Each process involves charge movement in a specialized protein structure, where part of the protein forms a channel for the conduction of ions. A 5-year program initiated by the Office of Naval Research for electrochemical research on biological and model membranes explored the physical basis of biological sensory and energy-transducing processes by focusing on the electrochemical properties of integral membrane proteins associated with ion-transport processes. The electrochemical emphasis in the study of channels has led to some useful generalizations about the physical properties of integral membrane proteins and some of the specialized properties that depend on unique structures. Although many research papers were published as a result of this program, this volume summarizes the most important research accomplishments of the program and indicates the critical problems that require further research.