Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 27, 2026

Computational Modeling of Retinal Neurons for Visual Prosthesis Research - Fundamental Approaches
Published on: June 21, 2022
Computational models in nano-bioelectronics: simulation of ionic transport in voltage operated channels
Massimo Longaretti1, Giovambattista Marino, Bice Chini
1Dipartimento di Matematica "F Brioschi", Politecnico di Milano, via Bonardi 9, 20133 Milano, Italy.
Abstract:
In this article, a novel mathematical and computational model is proposed for the numerical simulation of Voltage Operated ionic Channels (VOC) in Nano-bioelectronics applications. This is a first step towards a multi-physics description of hybrid bio-electronical devices such as bio-chips. The model consists of a coupled system of nonlinear partial differential equations, comprising a Poisson-Nernst-Planck system to account for electro-chemical phenomena, and a Navier-Stokes system to account for fluid-mechanical phenomena. Suitable functional iteration techniques for problem decoupling and finite element methods for discretization are proposed and discussed. Numerical results on realistic VOCs illustrate the validity of the model and its accuracy by comparison with relevant computed channel equivalent electrical parameters with measured data.
Related Concept Videos
The Role of Ion Channels in Neuronal Computation
Sometimes a single EPSP is strong enough to induce an action potential in the postsynaptic neuron. However, multiple presynaptic inputs must often create EPSPs around the same time for the postsynaptic neuron to be sufficiently depolarized to fire an action potential.
Mechanically-gated Ion Channels
Mechanically-gated Ion Channels
Voltage-gated Ion Channels
Generally, all voltage-gated ion channels have a 'voltage-sensing domain' that spans the lipid bilayer. The charged residues in the sensor move in response to the membrane potential changes that open the channel allowing ions movement. There are several types of...
Voltage-gated Ion Channels
Generally, all voltage-gated ion channels have a 'voltage-sensing domain' that spans the lipid bilayer. The charged residues in the sensor move in response to the membrane potential changes that open the channel allowing ions movement. There are several types of...
Electrochemical Gradient and Channel Proteins: An Overview
The electrical gradient: The electrical gradient across cell membranes refers to the difference in electric charge between the inside and outside of a cell. This difference drives the movement of ions towards or away from the cells. For instance, if the inside of the cell is more negatively charged relative to the...

