Ion Channel
Ion channels are pore-forming proteins that help establish and control the voltage gradient across the plasma membrane of cells (see membrane potential) by allowing the flow of ions down their electrochemical gradient. They are present in the membranes that surround all biological cells. The study of ion channels involves many scientific techniques such as voltage clamp electrophysiology (in particular patch clamp), immunohistochemistry, and RT-PCR.
Read more about Ion Channel: Basic Features, Biological Role, Diversity, Detailed Structure, Diseases of Ion Channels, History, The Ion Channel in Fine Art
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“There is the falsely mystical view of art that assumes a kind of supernatural inspiration, a possession by universal forces unrelated to questions of power and privilege or the artists relation to bread and blood. In this view, the channel of art can only become clogged and misdirected by the artists concern with merely temporary and local disturbances. The song is higher than the struggle.”
—Adrienne Rich (b. 1929)