Principal Investigator

J   Yin Theoretical Physics, RSPhysSE, ANU

Project Title

Mechanisms of Membrane Ion Channels

Brief Description for General Publications

Understanding the mechanisms of ion channels is a fundamental problem in biology, because all electrical activities in the brain and nervous system are regulated by the opening and closing of such channels. We are studying, using computer simulations, how ions navigate through narrow pores formed by channel protein molecules, and investigating the gating processes through which channels control ion flow. This information may help us to find the causes of and, possibly, cures for many neurological and muscular disorders. The research projects we have embarked upon can only be carried out with fast supercomputers. Thus, the APAC National Facility is indispensable for our research.