Membrane active transporters function as biological pumps by consuming energy from ATP molecules to move ions against their concentration gradients in order to build up an electrochemical potential across the cell membrane. This potential is critical for cell functions. Because many of these biological pumps are sensitive to electric fields, a fundamental question is whether it is possible to electrically control their function. Recently, this group developed a synchronization modulation technique for entrainment of Na/K pump molecules. By application of specially designed oscillating electric field to cells, the group has shown that it is possible to, first, force the pumps to work at the same frequency, and then, gradually accelerate the pump rate manyfold. In this project the group will continue to investigate the underlying mechanisms for this process and to explore potential applications. The broader impacts of this project are potential applications of this technique to treat diseases that involve a loss of the electrochemical potential across the cell membrane.
