From Biophysics to Cellular Function: Neural TELCs-Membrane-Anions Capacitor Transmembrane Potential

James Weifu Lee^*

• Old Dominion University, Norfolk, United States

Based on the transmembrane-electrostatically localized protons/cations charges (TELCs) theory, neural transmembrane potential including both resting and action potential is now well elucidated as the voltage contributed by the TELCs-membrane-anions capacitor biophysics in a neuron. Accordingly, neural transmembrane potential has an inverse relationship with TELCs surface density, which may represent a substantial progress in bettering the fundamental understanding of neuroscience. In this article, I will present a review on the latest development of the TELCs neural transmembrane potential theory and address Silverstein's interesting arguments regarding the TELCs model that may constitute a complementary development to both the Hodgkin-Huxley classic cable theory and the Goldman-Hodgkin-Katz equation. A series of predictions from the TELCs model regarding crucial ion channels have exactly been experimentally observed in many well established electrophysiological phenomena including (but not limited to): 1) The tetrodotoxin (TTX) sensitivity shows the complete blockade of action potentials by TTX; 2) Genetic knockout or mutation of critical ion channels abolishes action potential spike; and 3) The precise clustering of ion channels at the axonal initial segment and nodes of Ranvier underlies the ability to fire action potential spikes and the saltatory conduction along a myelinated axon. This indicates that the TELCs model can be well predictive and provide new opportunities as a theoretical tool for further research to better understand neurosciences. Highlights •Neural transmembrane potential is now elucidated as the voltage contributed by the TELCs membrane capacitor activity. •The TELCs model is complementary to the Hodgkin-Huxley classic cable theory and the Goldman-Hodgkin-Katz equation. •Application of the TELCs model enables calculation of TELCs surface density as a function of transmembrane potential. •Action potential spikes can now be constructed through TELCs-based integral equations using transmembrane ion current data.