Patch-Clamp Action Potential Assays
Current-clamp recordings directly measure changes in cardiomyocyte membrane potential over time. Analysis of depolarization, repolarization and rhythm supports investigation of drug effects on cardiac excitability and electrophysiological mechanisms.
Supported Research Models
The service covers primary cardiomyocytes, iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes, and cardiac organoids or cardiac tissue-like preparations. Model source, culture maturation, tissue thickness and recording access influence the experimental approach and interpretation.
Key Evaluation Parameters
| Parameter | Analysis scope |
|---|---|
| Action potential duration | Analyze repolarization durations such as APD10, APD50 and APD90 when supported by waveform quality. |
| Action potential morphology | Assess amplitude, maximum diastolic potential, the upstroke and triangulation. |
| Rhythm and abnormal events | Evaluate cycle length, beat-to-beat variability and events such as early or delayed afterdepolarizations when the diagnostic criteria are met. |
The available parameters depend on cell type, recording stability and stimulation protocol. Results obtained at different temperatures, pacing conditions or baseline rates must be compared in the context of those conditions.
From Single-Cell Recordings to Functional Relationships
For cardiac organoids and cardiac tissue-like preparations, suitable cells within the tissue or dissociated cells can be selected according to recording access. A recording characterizes the measured cell and does not directly represent the electrical activity of every cell in the tissue.
Action potential recording complements calcium imaging, contraction analysis and field-potential measurements. Extracellular field potentials and optical voltage signals have different measurement bases and cannot directly replace absolute membrane-potential measurements by patch clamp.
Study Design and Deliverables
The model, treatment concentrations, exposure times, controls and replication are agreed according to the research objectives. Results are analyzed alongside sample condition and quality-control information.
- Recording conditions, quality-control information and representative action potential waveforms.
- Single-cell and between-group statistics for the agreed parameters, with concentration-response analysis.
- Criteria used to classify abnormal events and an explanation of their relationship to other functional findings.
