Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
These are proteins that can open or close in response to a specific stimulus, allowing ions to pass through the cell membrane.
Related terms
Voltage-gated channels: These are ion channels that open or close in response to changes in electrical potential across the cell membrane.
Ligand-gated channels: These are ion channels that open or close when a specific chemical (the ligand) binds to them.
Mechanically-gated channels: These are ion channels that open or close in response to physical deformation of the receptor, such as stretching or pressure.