Patch-Clamp: Non-Traditional Techniques

摘要

Traditional patch clamp techniques have emphasized single-channel recording in a variety of configurations including cell-attached, inside-out, outside-out, and whole-cell recording. New procedures have used capabilities that were not anticipated in the original development. It has proven possible to record the femtofarad changes in cell capacitance associated with exo- and endocytosis. These measurements have generally confirmed electron microscopic evidence of exocytotic vesicle size, but in addition have provided direct evidence for the intracellular fusion of secretary granules and provided a dynamic measurement of membrane trafficking. Since the giga seal provides a mechanical seal as well as an electrical and chemical seal, it has been possible to measure the mechanical properties of the cell membrane using as outputs the activation of mechanotransducing ion channels, the stress induced increase in patch capacitance and the membrane strain. Reprints. (jhd)