ion channel

plural ion channels

1. biochemistryA protein complex or single protein that spans between both sides of a cell membrane and allows specific ions to pass through.

   Pleurobrachia was missing many common proteins called ion channels that generate electric signals that travel rapidly down a nerve.

   2017 August 1, Douglas Fox, “Aliens in our midst”, in Aeon, archived from the original on 26 May 2019

   1 more example

   2008 Daniels, David. "Ion Channels Play Key Role in R&D". 1 June 2008. Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News, 28 (11), pg 24.; archived 2 January 2010. ISSN 1935-472X. OCLC 77706455. Ion channels, which facilitate this movement, are protein assemblies that penetrate the membrane and catalyze passage of specific ions such as sodium (Na+), potassium (K+), or calcium (Ca2+) into or out of the cell down the electrochemical gradient.