Development of a useful theory of ion channel conductance

Ion channels are an essential part of the molecular machinery of life. All reactive tissues rely on ion channels, including the brain and heart. The aim of this project is to develop a useful theory capable of predicting conductance from channel structure. Conductance is the main job of a channel, and is experimentally measurable. The structure of one type of channel has recently been discovered, more are expected to follow. A theory linking these two would constitute knowledge of how ion channels work. If successful this project would put such knowledge at the disposal of all ion channel researchers.