Electrophysiological Characterization of Photoreceptor-like Cells in Retinal Organoids Using Whole-Cell Patch Clamp Method.

The patch clamp technique is an electrophysiological method that allows direct measurement of the membrane potential of the cells and current passing through the soma membrane. Photoreceptor-like cells in retinal organoids can be recorded to determine their electrophysiological properties, which are closely related to the physiological functions of mature photoreceptors. Whole-cell patch clamp recording can recognize events of hyperpolarization and depolarization of differentiated cells in retinal organoids. Furthermore, these cells respond to electrical stimulation, as well as to light and darkness. This chapter will explain both types of the whole-cell recordings, voltage clamp and current clamp, and grant the opportunity to characterize the electrophysiological features of presumptive photoreceptor cells. In addition to explaining the patch clamp procedure, the types of solutions used for recording and the manufacture of the recording glass electrodes are described.