Specifications for nerve membrane models

The limitations of models which can generate "action potentials" are discussed and reasons are given for testing all proposed membrane models by comparison with voltage clamp data. Some background information is provided and the voltage clamp methodology reviewed. Many of the membrane electrical characteristics measured by this technique are discussed and some recent observations are given to illustrate the additional data against which models should now be tested. Selected proposals for membrane models are reviewed and compared with one another and with voltage clamp measurements.