One-Channel Cell-Attached Patch-Clamp Recording l Protocol Preview

Learn the overall objective of measuring electrical current through a single ion channel and the key advantages of this patch-clamp approach over methods that measure multiple channels simultaneously.

Prepare cells by heterologously expressing the target ion channel in cell lines that are easy to work with and conducive to experimental goals.

Use a fire-polished pipette to gently approach the cell at the correct angle and establish a stable seal on the cell membrane with persistence and careful technique.

Determine the number of ion channels present in the patch and verify that only a single channel is present before proceeding with recording.

Measure and record the electrical current flowing through the identified single ion channel to capture response patterns and biophysical properties.

Apply post-recording analysis to process the current data and extract biophysical properties that reveal how the ion channel functions and communicates between neurons.