Pore Dimensions of Ion Channels: Conclusions

4. Discussion and Conclusions

The field of ion channel structural studies is still in its infancy. However, the amount of available structural information can be expected to steadily increase in the future. No doubt there are many surprises that await us and the current understanding will soon look remarkably primitive.

It is hoped that this work shows that an analysis of the pore properties of channels can lead to insights into their behaviour. It describes initial attempts to systematically link structure with conductance properties. It is hoped that the methods developed will continue to be of use to other workers in the field.

Oliver S. Smart (last modified 20/12/96)