What Role Do Electrochemical Gradients Play in Cellular Function?
The electrochemical gradient is essential for numerous cellular processes, such as:
Action potentials in neurons, which rely on the rapid change in electrochemical gradients. Muscle contraction, which depends on the flow of calcium ions controlled by electrochemical gradients. Secondary active transport mechanisms, where the gradient of one ion drives the transport of another substance. ATP production in mitochondria, which involves the proton gradient across the mitochondrial membrane.
