Population patch clamping

Another important challenge that remains to be addressed is the relatively low success rate in obtaining useable and consistent high quality patch clamp data from most of these instruments. The success rate currently stands at around 40-60% for most systems [64], excluding the Ion Works Quattro that incorporates population patch clamping and claims a success rate of > 95% [53]. Some of the factors that contribute to this lack of success include stable positioning of the cells over the pore of the planar electrode, lack of adequate suction control in some cases, and the inability to achieve high resistance seals or electrical access. 

Feske, S. 2007. Calcium signaling in lymphocyte activation and disease. Nat. Rev. Immunol. 7, 690-702. Finkel, A. et al. 2006. Population patch-clamp improves data consistency and success rates in the measurement of ionic currents. J. Biomol. Screen. 11,488 496. 

John, V.H. et al. 2007. Novel 384-well population patch-clamp electrophysiology assays for Ca2+-activated K+ channels. J. Biomol. Screen. 12, 50-60. 

APCC automated planar patch clamp, cFPD local field potential, FABP3 cardiac fatty acid-binding protein, PPCIW population patch clamp by IonWorks Quattro, VC voltage clamp... 

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