The manual patch clamp (MPC) technique has a storied history as a fundamental tool for electrophysiological research since its development in the late 1970s. It is widely used for its unmatched sensitivity and precision, allowing detailed investigation of ion channel behaviors in various cell types. The manual nature of this method provides a level of control and observation that automated patch clamps can't match, particularly when studying complex or rare ion channel pharmacology. This hands-on approach yields high-quality, reproducible data, essential for in-depth functional analyses in drug development and neurophysiological research. Our service harnesses the power of this technique with unmatched expertise, a broad array of targets, and rapid, cost-effective delivery of results.

Cell Line-Based Patch-Clamp Assays

Our cell line-based manual patch-clamp assays provide precise screening capabilities with kinetics analysis. We work with stable cell lines expressing key ion channels such as Nav1.7, Nav1.8, Kv, hERG, and TRP, ensuring accurate electrophysiological data. Our assays are ideal for state-dependent inhibition studies and tailored to meet specific drug discovery needs.

Primary Cell Patch-Clamp Assays

We offer electrophysiology and functional assays using high-quality primary cells from various species, enabling physiologically relevant drug evaluation. 

☑️ Cardiomyocytes – Ventricular and atrial myocytes from mouse, rat, rabbit, and dog 

☑️ CNS Neurons – Cortical, hippocampal, and trigeminal ganglion neurons from rat and mouse (adult & neonatal) 

☑️ Sensory Neurons – DRG neurons from mouse, rat, dog, and monkey 

☑️ Pancreatic Islet Cells – Islet β-cells from mouse 

☑️ Brain Slice Assay – Ex vivo electrophysiological studies in brain slices

Data Analysis & Interpretation

Our team delivers high-resolution electrophysiology data, including IC₅₀ curves and kinetic profiles, ensuring accurate compound characterization. With expert consultation and in-depth analysis, we help accelerate decision-making in ion channel and drug discovery.

MPC Assays at Room Temperature and Physiological Temperature

In adherence to the updated ICH S7B Q&A requirements, we've expanded our services to include manual patch clamping at physiological temperatures, significantly enhancing the relevance of our data to human cardiac physiology. This approach provides a more accurate prediction of a drug's cardiac safety profile, mirroring in vivo conditions and ensuring the high fidelity of our cardiac ion channel assays. Our physiologically-temperatured assays represent a significant advancement in predicting clinical outcomes.

Comparison of hERG IC50 values under physiological and room temperature conditions. E4031 and terfenadine exhibit different inhibitory effects on hERG channels at physiological temperature and room temperature.  Cisapride exhibits similar inhibitory effects on hERG channels at physiological temperature and room temperature.  

Concentration-response curves and current recordings for the effects of Lidocaine and Nifedipine on Nav1.5 and Cav1.2 channels under physiological temperature conditions.

 Additional Resources 

CASE STUDY: 

VX-548's Potent and Selective Inhibition of Nav1.8 Validated by In Vitro Manual Patch-Clamp Analysis

APPLICATION NOTE: 

Kv1.3 Inhibition: A Promising Avenue in Immunology and Autoimmune Disease Treatment

Translational Pain Research: Electrophysiological Evaluation of Cynomolgus Monkey DRG Neurons