The murburn precepts for cellular ionic homeostasis and electrophysiology

J Cell Physiol. 2022 Jan;237(1):804-814. doi: 10.1002/jcp.30547. Epub 2021 Aug 11.

Abstract

Starting from the basic molecular structure and redox properties of its components, we build a macroscopic cellular electrophysiological model. We first present a murburn purview that could explain ion distribution in bulk-milieu/membrane-interface and support the origin of trans-membrane potential (TMP) in cells. In particular, the discussion focuses on how cells achieve disparity in the distribution of monovalent and divalent cations within (K+ > Na+ > Mg2+ > Ca2+ ) and outside (Na+ > K+ > Ca2+ > Mg2+ ). We explore how TMP could vary for resting/graded/action potentials generation and project a model for impulse conduction in neurons. Outcomes based on murburn bioenergetic equilibriums leading to solubilization of ion-pairs, membrane's permittivity, protein channels' fluxes, and proteins' innate ability to bind/adsorb ions selectively are projected as the integral rationale. We also provide experimental modalities to ratify the projections.

Keywords: Hofmeister series; action potential; association-induction hypothesis; electrogenic pumps; homeostasis; membrane channels; murburn concept; resting/trans-membrane potential.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Electrophysiology
  • Homeostasis
  • Ions
  • Membrane Potentials
  • Sodium* / metabolism

Substances

  • Ions
  • Sodium