Creating a Novel Mathematical Model of the Kv10.1 Ion Channel and Controlling Channel Activity with Nanoelectromechanical Systems

Abstract

The use of nanoelectromechanical systems or nanorobots offers a new concept for sensing and controlling subcellular structures, such as ion channels. We present here a novel method for mathematical modeling of ion channels based on control system theory and system identification. We investigated the use of nanoelectromechanical devices to control the activity of ion channels, particularly the activity of the voltage-gated ion channel Kv10.1, an important channel in cancer development and progression. A mathematical model of the dynamic behavior of the selected ion channel Kv10.1 in the Laplace (s) domain was developed, which is given in the representation of a transfer function. In addition, we addressed the possibilities of controlling ion channel activity by nanoelectromechanical devices and nanorobots and finally presented a control algorithm for the Kv10.1 as a control object. A use case demonstrates the potential of a Kv10.1 controlled nanorobot for cancer treatment at a single-cell level.

Special Issue on Trends and Challenges in Robotic Applications

“…In the hospitality industry, robots are now employed to carry out room service, reception duties and concierge services. In healthcare, robots assist in patient care, including as nanoelectromechanical devices for medical applications [8], in rehabilitation support [9,10] and in surgical robotics [11]. Moreover, service robots are also making inroads in agriculture [12], retail and public spaces, presenting new opportunities for automation in areas that previously relied solely on human labor.…”