From Markovian to Non-Markovian: Advancing ion channel rate process theory

Ion channels are essential membrane proteins that control ionic flow and cellular electrical activity. While traditional Markovian models have provided insights into channel gating, they fail to capture the memory-dependent dynamics of real ion channel behavior. This manuscript presents a novel semi non-Markovian framework for understanding ion channel gating processes. Using continuous time and discrete state space models for two and three-state systems, we derive Volterra convolution-type integral equations governing channel dynamics. Through Laplace transform analysis, we reveal asymptotic behaviors and previously hidden asymmetries between opening and closing rates. Our approach successfully predicts asymmetrical gating kinetics, characterizes infinite-state processes, and elucidates dynamic state creation—capabilities beyond conventional Markovian models. This breakthrough moves from phenomenological descriptions toward understanding the fundamental physics of ion channel gating, with significant implications for drug discovery and therapeutic development targeting ion channel dysfunction. This work establishes a new paradigm in ion channel research, providing the mathematical framework needed to unlock the full complexity of these critical cellular processes.