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A new method of preparing the basal membrane of renal tubules for patch clamp, using beetle malpighian tubules

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  • Transport Processes Metabolism and Endocrinology; Kidney, Gastrointestinal Tract, and Exocrine Glands
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Abstract

Access to the basal membrane of beetle Malpighian tubules (Onymacris rugatipennis) was achieved by a new method of stripping tubules of the surrounding connective tissue and basement membrane, in a simple squeezing process. We recorded single channel currents in the cell-attached configuration from basal K+ channels. The peeling method described, in this paper allows quick and easy preparation of Malpighian tubules for patch clamp studies on the basal membrane.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Zoology, University of Cape Town, 7700, Rondebosch, South Africa

    Sue Nicolson

  2. Department of Physiology, University of Cape Town, 7700, Rondebosch, South Africa

    Leon Isaacson

  3. Electron Microscope Unit, University of Cape Town, 7700, Rondebosch, South Africa

    Dane Gerneke

Authors
  1. Sue Nicolson
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  2. Leon Isaacson
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  3. Dane Gerneke
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Nicolson, S., Isaacson, L. & Gerneke, D. A new method of preparing the basal membrane of renal tubules for patch clamp, using beetle malpighian tubules. Pflügers Arch 417, 654–656 (1991). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00372966

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00372966

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