A Software Tool for Modelling and Simulation of Ion Channels

Background: Ion channels are proteins in the cell membrane that facilitate the di#usion of selected ions through biological membranes. Measuring ionic current has been made possible using the giga-seal patchclamp technique [13]. Modelling and simulation provide a better understanding that complements experimental results. Several tools are available. New modelling standards based on markup languages are being developed in order to promote collaborative research and model sharing. This paper presents a webbased channel simulation tool that uses a database of models described by the NeuroML language [6]. The tool currently focuses on the simulation of voltagegated ion channels and can be used as a prototype for a more generalized, standard-based and Web accessible neuronal modelling and simulation engine