Ion channel localization : methods and protocols

Although there are many useful books on virtually every aspect of ion channel structure and function, work on channel localization-determining the specific sites of ion channels and their receptors on cells-has long been neglected. In Ion Channel Localization: Methods and Protocols, active researchers at the cutting-edge of their fields describe how to use current and developing technologies to determine the exact cell sites of such channels and receptors. With emphasis on techniques employing the unique properties of these proteins, the core topics of the book include all the major pharmacological tools for ion channel determination. Also covered are fluorescent and radioligand assays, exciting new visualization methods employing green fluorescent protein (GFP), and novel assays based on the functional properties of ion channels and receptors, as well as rapidly developing atomic force microscopy methodologies. Comprehensive and rich in practical detail, Ion Channel Localization: Methods and Protocols brings together in a single volume detailed reviews of all the major techniques-both currently in use and in development-for localizing ion channels and receptors in cells, tissues, and organisms. Active researchers describe how to use current and developing technologies to determine the exact cell sites of ion channels and receptors. With emphasis on techniques employing the unique properties of these proteins, core topics include all major pharmacological tools for ion channel determination. Also covered are fluorescent and radioligand assays, visualization methods employing green fluorescent protein, and novel assays based on the functional properties of ion channels and receptors, as well as emerging atomic force microscopy methodologies. Of interest to cell biologists, neurophysiologists, and molecular neurobiologists. Lopatin is affiliated with the University of Michigan Medical School. Nichols is affiliated with the Washington University School of Medicine. c. Book News Inc Different types of voltage-dependent calcium (Ca2+) channels (VCCs) in the plasma-membrane control depolarization-induced Ca2+ entry into cells, thereby serving important physiological functions, including excitation-contraction coupling, neurotransmitter and hormone release, and neuronal plasticity (for review, see refs. 1-4). The introduction of patch clamp technology by Erwin Neher and Bert Sakmann about 20 years ago led to the realization of the great variety of novel ion channel species, and the subsequent revolution in cl- ing has revealed an even greater diversity of the underlying molecular entities. Front Matter....Pages i-xv Front Matter....Pages 17-17 Front Matter....Pages 1-15 Front Matter....Pages 17-38 Front Matter....Pages 39-56 Front Matter....Pages 57-73 Back Matter....Pages 75-91 ....Pages 93-117 Edited By Anatoli N. Lopatin And Colin G. Nichols. Includes Bibliographical References And Index.