Potassium Channel Origami Windmill Model

The potassium channel model proposed in this paper is an independent functional unit, four pore helixes rotating synchronously in one direction; it transports K⁺ passively and unilaterally and has no dependence on ATP, which is different from previous models such as “paddle model”, “propeller model” and “revolving door model”. Its mechanism is that K⁺ and the positively charged amino acids in α-helixs form a repulsive force, which pushes the “blade” back and makes the “windmill” rotate. The aperture size of K⁺ channel varies with the speed of windmill. This determines the “opening” and “closing” of channel holes. The model of “origami windmill” reveals the mechanism of K⁺ channel operation by applying the principles of cell biophysics. This has enlightening significance for other basic research related to it. Perhaps, this will help answer the basic biological questions of human health and disease from the source.