A NEW INTERPRETATION OF THE DYNAMIC CHANGES OF THE POTASSIUM CONDUCTANCE IN THE SQUID GIANT AXON.

The solutions, n(t), of the differential equation dn/dt = alpha (1 - n) n (4 - 6n + 4n(2) - n(3)) - betan(2) (4 - 6n + 4n(2) - n(3)) in which alpha and beta are instantaneous functions of membrane potential, are shown to fit with good accuracy the time courses of the rise of potassium conductance during depolarizing steps in clamp potential, found experimentally by Hodgkin and Huxley and by Cole and Moore. The equation is derived by analysing the dynamic behaviour of a system consisting of a square array of interacting pores. The possible role of Ca(++) ions in this system is discussed.