Electric field-induced changes in membrane proteins charge movement currents.

Wei Chen1, Wen-hui Wu

  • 1Laboratory for Cellular and Molecular Biophysics, Department of Physics, The University of South Florida, 4202 E. Fowler Avenue, Tampa, FL 33620, USA. Wchen@cas.usf.edu

Summary

Brief electric shocks can structurally damage membrane proteins, reducing their function. This electro-coupled structural damage is a key mechanism in electrical injury, particularly when thermal effects are minimal.

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