Fractal properties of ion channels and diffusion.

ABSTRACT

We focus our attention on a fractal model recently proposed by Liebovitch to account for the lack of a time scale in ion channel kinetics. We establish a connection between the dwell-time distributions and the correlation time of the ion channel signal, thereby making it possible to derive analytical predictions on the diffusion properties of a random walk constructed from the sum of the current fluctuations of ion channels. With the help of a numerical simulation of the Liebovitch model, it is shown that the Hurst analysis can provide a reliable determination of the standard (or anomalous) diffusion properties. On the basis of results of computer simulation we argue that by applying the Hurst analysis to the experimental distribution of closed times it is possible, in principle, to establish whether the Liebovitch model is valid.