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What is patch-clamp recording and why is it the most widely used technique for studying ion channels?

User Long Dao
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Final answer:

The patch-clamp recording is a technique used to study ion channels in biology. It involves placing a glass pipette, also known as a patch pipette, onto a cell membrane to create a seal. This allows researchers to measure the electrical currents flowing through individual ion channels.

Step-by-step explanation:

The patch-clamp recording is a technique used to study ion channels in biology. It involves placing a glass pipette, also known as a patch pipette, onto a cell membrane to create a seal. This allows researchers to measure the electrical currents flowing through individual ion channels.

It is the most widely used technique because it provides direct and precise measurements of ion channel activity. Patch-clamp recording allows scientists to study the properties of individual ion channels, such as their conductance, gating kinetics, and selectivity. It also offers insights into the function of ion channels in different biological processes, including nerve transmission and muscle contraction.

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