Patch-clamp Recording
Patch-clamp Recording - Related Videos
14:58
Methods for Patch Clamp Capacitance Recordings from the Calyx
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Cited by 6 •
2007
We demonstrate the basic techniques for presynaptic patch clamp recording at the calyx of Held, a mammalian central nervous system nerve terminal.
13:07
One-channel Cell-attached Patch-clamp Recording
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Cited by 17 •
2014
Described here is a procedure for obtaining long stretches of current recording from one ion channel with the cell-attached patch-clamp technique. This method allows for observing, in real time, the pattern of open-close channel conformations that underlie the biological signal. These data inform about channel properties in undisturbed biological membranes.
07:38
Patch Clamp Recordings from Embryonic Zebrafish Mauthner Cells
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Cited by 12 •
2013
We have developed an intact brain-spinal cord preparation to record and monitor electrical activity via patch clamp recording from the Mauthner neurons and other reticulospinal cells in zebrafish embryos. Thus, we are able to record excitatory and inhibitory synaptic currents, voltage-gated channel activity and action potentials from key neurons in a developing embryo.
07:23
Whole-cell Patch-clamp Recordings in Brain Slices
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Cited by 60 •
2016
This protocol describes basic procedural steps for performing whole-cell patch-clamp recordings. This technique allows the study of the electrical behavior of neurons, and when performed in brain slices, allows the assessment of various neuronal functions from neurons that are still integrated in relatively well preserved brain circuits.
08:00
Patch Clamp Recording of Ion Channels Expressed in Xenopus Oocytes
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Cited by 12 •
2008
This is intended as an introduction to patch clamp recording from Xenopus laevis oocytes. It covers vitelline membrane removal, formation of a gigaohm seal (gigaseal), and the optional conversion of the patch to the outside-out topology.
FAQs
By applying controlled voltage or current changes and monitoring the resulting ionic current, Patch-clamp Recording reveals how channel activity changes under defined electrical conditions. The measurements can show channel kinetics, meaning the timing and pattern of channel behavior, rather than only indicating whether channels are present. This time-resolved information helps relate membrane electrical activity to cellular signaling.
The high-resistance seal between the glass micropipette and cell membrane helps define the membrane region being examined and supports measurement of very small ionic currents. Because the electrical conditions are controlled through this sealed interface, the recorded signal can be associated with channel activity in a membrane patch or with currents across the cell. Seal quality therefore affects how clearly electrical responses can be resolved.
A patch recording focuses on a small membrane region, allowing investigators to examine activity from individual ion channels or a localized group of channels. A whole-cell recording instead captures ionic currents across the cell membrane, supporting analysis of broader cellular electrical behavior. Choosing between these formats depends on whether the experiment emphasizes local channel activity or integrated membrane responses.
The workflow begins by positioning a glass micropipette against the cell membrane and forming a high-resistance seal. Researchers then apply controlled voltage or current changes while measuring the resulting ionic currents. Depending on the experimental goal, the recording targets either a small membrane patch or the whole cell. The resulting traces are analyzed for channel activity and cellular electrical responses.
Patch-clamp measurements can characterize ion-channel kinetics, membrane potential, synaptic transmission, and cellular responses to drugs or other stimuli. These outcomes connect electrical signals with the behavior of cells and their membrane channels. Comparing current responses under controlled conditions can therefore help investigators determine how signaling changes when electrical input, chemical treatment, or a biological stimulus is introduced.
The method supports studies of neurons, muscle cells, and sensory systems, where membrane currents and excitability are central to function. It also helps investigate channel-related diseases by measuring how ion-channel behavior or cellular electrical responses change under defined conditions. Drug-response experiments further extend its use, allowing researchers to examine whether treatments alter channel activity or broader membrane signaling.