voltage clamp

A voltage clamp is a scientific technique used to study electrical activity in cells, especially nerve and muscle cells. It involves maintaining the cell's membrane potential (the voltage across its membrane) at a set level, regardless of the cell's natural activity. By doing this, researchers can observe how ion channels (proteins that allow ions to pass) respond to specific voltages. This helps in understanding how electrical signals are generated and transmitted in cells, which is crucial for deciphering nerve functions, muscle movements, and related biological processes.