Ion Pumps’ Compensatory Role: Do Ion Pumps Counter Quantum Tunnelling and Membrane Leakage in VGICs?
CWSF · 2026 Curiosity & Ingenuity
Overview
The experimentally observed membrane leakage ratio of 2 potassium ions out to 3 sodium ions in is inadequately explained by classical processes. This project proposes ions quantum tunnelling through closed voltage-gated ion channels (VGICs) may contribute to the membrane leakage ratio. Quantum tunnelling allows a particle to pass through a barrier with insufficient energy themselves. VGICs are passive transport proteins, whereas Ion pumps are proteins that maintain the resting membrane potential. This project assesses the degree to which ions can quantum tunnel through closed VGICs and evaluates ion pumps as a compensatory mechanism. Mathematical models derived from Shrödinger's equation were used to compare the ratio of sodium and potassium ion tunnelling probability to the leak transport ratio. Results suggested ions can quantum tunnel through VGICs, while ion pumps may act as a counter mechanism, and the quantum tunnelling of ions through VGICs could be a potential cause of channelopathies.
Awards (2)
- Special Award
- Selected for CWSF 2026
Competition history
- CWSF 2026
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