Patch clamp

Patch clamp is a powerful laboratory technique used to study the electrical properties of individual cells, particularly neurons. It involves using a tiny glass pipette to create a tight seal on a small patch of cell membrane. This allows scientists to measure the flow of ions—charged particles—across the membrane, which is crucial for understanding how cells communicate and function. By controlling the environment inside the pipette, researchers can investigate how cells respond to different substances, providing insights into cellular processes and potential treatments for various diseases.