Direct electrical access to presynaptic ion channels has hitherto been limited to large specialized terminals such as the calyx of Held or hippocampal mossy fiber bouton. The electrophysiology and ion-channel complement of far more abundant small synaptic terminals (≤1 μm) remain poorly understood. Here we report a method based on superresolution scanning ion conductance imaging of small synapses in culture at approximately 100–150 nm 3D resolution, which allows presynaptic patch-clamp recordings in all four configurations (cell-attached, inside-out, outside-out, and whole-cell). Using this technique, we report presynaptic recordings of K+, Na+, Cl−, and Ca2+ channels. This semiautomated approach allows direct investigation of the distribution and properties of presynaptic ion channels at small central synapses. - by Novak P.et al., Neuron Volume 79, Issue 6, 18 September 2013, Pages 1067–1077
Julien Hering, PhD's insight:
This semiautomated method seems to be robust and accesible to low experienced scientists in electrophysiology. The nanoscale resolution opens a window on the physiology of small presynaptic boutons and the ion channels distribution and properties in these neuronal terminals. - Article in open access !