In Vivo Whole-Cell Patch-Clamp Methods: Recent Technical Progress and Future Perspectives
Brain functions are fundamental for the survival of organisms, and they are supported by neural circuits consisting of a variety of neurons. To investigate the function of neurons at the single-cell level, researchers often use whole-cell patch-clamp recording techniques. These techniques enable us...
Main Authors: | , , |
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Format: | Article |
Language: | English |
Published: |
MDPI AG
2021-02-01
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Series: | Sensors |
Subjects: | |
Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/21/4/1448 |
Summary: | Brain functions are fundamental for the survival of organisms, and they are supported by neural circuits consisting of a variety of neurons. To investigate the function of neurons at the single-cell level, researchers often use whole-cell patch-clamp recording techniques. These techniques enable us to record membrane potentials (including action potentials) of individual neurons of not only anesthetized but also actively behaving animals. This whole-cell recording method enables us to reveal how neuronal activities support brain function at the single-cell level. In this review, we introduce previous studies using in vivo patch-clamp recording techniques and recent findings primarily regarding neuronal activities in the hippocampus for behavioral function. We further discuss how we can bridge the gap between electrophysiology and biochemistry. |
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ISSN: | 1424-8220 |