Sequential Approach for Describing Channel Opening and Desensitization

A formula describing the time-course of activation and desensitization of nicotinic-like acetylcholine channels is developed. The method used to arrive at this simplified formula is based on a sequential approach. Based upon this approximated and simple formula, analytical expressions for various specific experimental aspects are derived. These expressions together with the corresponding experiments provide a method to evaluate in a sequential manner the various rate constants involved.