Extended kinetic models with waiting-time distributions: Exact results

Inspired by the need for effective stochastic models to describe the comple x behavior of biological motor proteins that move on linear tracks, exact r esults are derived for the velocity and dispersion of simple linear sequent ial models (or one-dimensional random walks) with general waiting-time dist ributions. The concept of "mechanicity" is introduced to conveniently quant ify departures from simple "chemical," kinetic rate processes, and its sign ificance is briefly indicated. The results are extended to more elaborate m odels that have finite side branches and include death processes (to repres ent the detachment of a motor from the track). (C) 2000 American Institute of Physics. [S0021- 9606(00)50948-9].