Dynamic Monte Carlo simulation of coupled transport through a narrow multiply-occupied pore

Abstract: Dynamic Monte Carlo simulations are used to study coupled transport (co-transport) through sub-nanometer-diameter pores. In this classic Hodgkin-Keynes mechanism, an ion species uses the large flux of an abundant ion species to move against its concentration gradient. The efficiency of co-transport is examined for various pore parameters so that synthetic nanopores can be engineered to maximize this effect. In general, the pore must be narrow enough that ions cannot pass each other and the charge of the pore large enough to attract many ions so that they exchange momentum. Co-transport efficiency increases as pore length increases, but even very short pores exhibit co-transport, in contradiction to the usual perception that long pores are necessary. The parameter ranges where co-transport occurs is consistent with current and near-future synthetic nanopore geometry parameters, suggesting that co-transport of ions may be a new application of nanopores.