A model for biological oscillations

Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1981 Apr;78(4):2204-7. doi: 10.1073/pnas.78.4.2204.

Abstract

A model and computation for oscillatory phenomena observed in some biological processes that utilize ion gradients across a membrane is presented. The model contains two main features: (i) active H+ transport pathways in the membrane and (ii) key enzymes having a pH-dependent activity profile and either translocating H+ from outside or producing H+ as a product. With this model a very long period of oscillations, as observed in mitochondrial and circadian rhythms, could be quantitatively demonstrated.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Biological Transport, Active
  • Carrier Proteins / physiology
  • Circadian Rhythm
  • Feedback
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Membrane Potentials
  • Membranes / physiology
  • Models, Biological
  • Periodicity*
  • Protons*

Substances

  • Carrier Proteins
  • Protons