Sodium Potassium Pump and its Mechanisms (Neuron)
(Na+/K+)
Protein pump is one of the best examples for active transportation in cell membrane. Each and every cell in out body is made up of two layers they are Phospholipid Bilayers or Plasma membrane. The large and Charged Molecules cannot pass through the cell if the molecules are required by cell. Here the pumps play role in passing through the molecules against the gradient. Here the gradient means the flow of molecules from higher concentration to lower concentration.
Mechanisms or steps (Na+/K+).
- When the sodium ions bind to the sodium potassium pump the energy molecule called ATP (Adenosine Tri- Phosphate) attached to the sodium potassium pump to change their shape.
- When the ATP Which is P (One phosphate group) attached to the pump the protein change their shape which opens externally and closed internally.
- Now, the sodium combined with pump are driven away (Which is released) and the k+ ions (potassium) are binds within the pump (2k+ ions).
- When the phosphate group is released from the pump the shape of protein is changed back to normal or native shape.
- Now, the Potassium ions are released into the cell. This process continues regularly. (cycles)
Due to the continues cycle of this process cause covers the sodium level inside and high in outside, even though 2 ions of potassium inlet, the electrical gradient inside the cell is lower than the outside.
Author: Avinash S V.
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