The nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) is a type of ligand-gated ion channel that responds to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine (ACh). These receptors are found in both the central and peripheral nervous systems and play a crucial role in various physiological processes, including muscle contraction and neurotransmission.

P-type calcium channels are a specific type of voltage-gated calcium channel, which are integral membrane proteins that allow calcium ions (Ca²⁺) to enter cells in response to changes in membrane potential. They are characterized by their specific properties and roles in various physiological processes. ### Key Characteristics of P-Type Calcium Channels: 1. **Subtypes**: P-type calcium channels are primarily associated with the Cav2.1 (also known as CaV2.1) subtype.

P2X purinoreceptors are a family of protein receptors that are part of the purinergic signaling system. They are ionotropic receptors that are activated by extracellular ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and belong to the larger family of purinergic receptors, which also includes P1 receptors (adenosine receptors). P2X receptors are trimeric proteins, meaning they are composed of three subunits that come together to form a functional ion channel.

Desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) is an ambient mass spectrometry technique that allows for the direct analysis of solid or liquid samples without the need for extensive sample preparation. DESI combines aspects of desorption and electrospray ionization, enabling the rapid characterization of various materials, such as biological tissues, pharmaceuticals, and environmental samples, directly in their native state.

TRPC2, or "Transient Receptor Potential Channel 2," is a type of ion channel that is part of the TRP (Transient Receptor Potential) family of channels. It is primarily expressed in the sensory neurons of the olfactory system, specifically in the sensory cilia of olfactory neurons in certain mammalian species. TRPC2 plays a crucial role in the detection of pheromones and other chemical signals, contributing to the sense of smell.

TRPC7, or Transient Receptor Potential Cation Channel Subfamily P Member 7, is a protein that in humans is encoded by the TRPC7 gene. It is part of a larger family of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, which are involved in various physiological processes, including sensory perception, signal transduction, and regulation of cellular calcium levels.

TRPM1 (Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin 1) is a member of the TRP (transient receptor potential) ion channel family. It is primarily known for its role in sensory reception, particularly in the context of vision and pain. TRPM1 is expressed in various tissues, including the retina, where it is localized in the photoreceptor cells, specifically in the ON-bipolar cells.

"TIMED" can refer to a couple of different things depending on the context: 1. **TIMED (Thermosphere Ionosphere Mesosphere Energetics and Dynamics)**: This refers to a NASA mission launched in 2001 aimed at studying the dynamics of the upper atmosphere, specifically the thermosphere and ionosphere. The TIMED satellite was designed to measure atmospheric temperature, density, and other parameters to improve our understanding of these regions and how they interact with solar and terrestrial phenomena.

TRPV5 (Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 5) is a member of the TRP (Transient Receptor Potential) channel family, which consists of ion channels that are involved in various physiological processes. TRPV5 is specifically known for its role as a calcium ion (Ca²⁺) channel. It is primarily expressed in the kidneys, where it plays a critical role in calcium reabsorption in the renal tubules.

Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are a family of ion channels located in the cell membrane that play a crucial role in various sensory and physiological processes. They are named for their role in mediating transient (temporary) receptor potential changes in response to various stimuli. These channels are involved in sensory perception, including pain, temperature, taste, and vision.

VDAC2, or Voltage-Dependent Anion Channel 2, is a protein that is part of the VDAC family, which also includes VDAC1 and VDAC3. These proteins are located in the outer mitochondrial membrane and play a critical role in mitochondrial function. VDAC2 is primarily involved in regulating the transport of ions and small molecules across the mitochondrial membrane, which is essential for maintaining cellular energy metabolism.

The Voltage-gated Potassium Channel Database (Kv database or Kv channel database) is a specialized online resource that provides information about voltage-gated potassium channels (Kv channels), which are crucial for various physiological processes in many organisms. These channels play a significant role in the generation and propagation of electrical signals in nerve and muscle cells by allowing potassium ions to flow across the cell membrane in response to changes in membrane potential.

Voltage-gated proton channels are specialized ion channels that allow the selective movement of protons (H⁺ ions) across the cell membrane in response to changes in membrane potential. Unlike more commonly known ion channels (such as sodium or potassium channels), voltage-gated proton channels have a unique and specific function related to human physiology and intracellular processes. ### Key Features: 1. **Function**: These channels are involved in regulating pH and electrical excitability in cells.

A Duoplasmatron is a type of ion source used primarily in the field of mass spectrometry and ion beam technology. It is designed to produce a well-defined beam of ions, often for applications such as material analysis, ion implantation, and surface modification. The Duoplasmatron operates by creating a plasma from a gas (typically a noble gas like argon) using an electric arc. This plasma consists of charged particles, including ions and electrons.

Spark ionization is a process that involves the formation of ions in a gas when it is exposed to a strong electric field, often resulting in the generation of a spark. This phenomenon occurs when the electric field strength exceeds a certain threshold, known as the breakdown voltage, causing the gas molecules to become ionized.

An ionospheric heater is a facility or research instrument used to modify or stimulate the ionosphere, a region of the Earth's upper atmosphere that is ionized by solar and cosmic radiation. One of the most well-known examples of an ionospheric heater is the High-Frequency Active Auroral Research Program (HAARP), located in Alaska.

Ionospheric sounding is a technique used to study the ionosphere, which is a region of the Earth's upper atmosphere, characterized by the presence of ionized particles. This part of the atmosphere is crucial for understanding various phenomena related to radio communications, satellite operations, and even space weather. The primary objective of ionospheric sounding is to measure the electron density and the structure of the ionosphere at different heights.

Sudden Ionospheric Disturbance (SID) refers to a rapid change in the ionosphere's electron density, which can significantly affect radio wave propagation. These disturbances are often caused by solar events, such as solar flares or coronal mass ejections (CMEs), which release bursts of radiation and charged particles into space.