In the case of trichogin, it could act by forming channels in the membrane "rather than acting as an ion carrier". I could not get the difference between these two mechanisms of action.
Dear Maxim
Antimicrobial peptides can for either pores spanning the membrane, but it these pores are transient (opens and closes), pore-like aggregates that disrupts membrane permeability, ion channels or act a cell penetrating peptide with may also be ion carriers. The pore and pore aggregates are not very specific for ions and generally disrupt membrane permeability. Channel ten to be more specific for certain ions. Well-know channel formers are alamethicin and gramicidin A (ie VGA). These peptides span the membranes forming channels through which ions (potassium and sodium) and water can be transported, thereby disrupting the membrane potential of the target cell. An ion carrier is a molecule that chelates a metal ion(s) and carries it over the membrane. Valinomycin is a good example of such a cell penetrating peptide that acts a ion carrier as it specifically binds to potassium ions and transfers it over cell membranes to disrupt the potassium gradient and membrane potential.
Hope I answered your questions.
Regards
Marina
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