Isolation of neurons suitable for patch-clamping from adult mammalian central nervous systems

The procedure liberates neurons free of cellular debris and glial investments, allowing the formation of giga-ohm seals with patch clamp electrodes, and the characteristic morphology of neurons is maintained.

Abstract

A method is described for the isolation of neurons from defined regions of the mammalian central nervous system, by a combination of mechanical and enzymatic means. The procedure liberates neurons free of cellular debris and glial investments, allowing the formation of giga-ohm seals with patch clamp electrodes. The characteristic morphology of neurons is maintained, together with the diversity of active channels evident in the intact nervous system.