Analyzing Dynamic Information from Single-Channel Recordings under Non-Stationary Conditions

Abstract

Ion channels are membrane proteins that facilitate the selective passage of ions, playing a key role in regulating cellular electrical properties and enabling a broad range of physiological functions. The patch-clamp technique has revolutionized our understanding of ion channel function by providing a detailed view of their activity. In particular, single-channel recordings have been fundamental in revealing the kinetic transitions between conductive and non-conductive states, which are essential for studying the biophysical, physiological, and pharmacological properties of ion channels. In physiological environments, ion channels are often exposed to dynamic conditions, such as fluctuating electrical signals and varying ligand concentrations. These non-stationary conditions require specialized analysis, which is critical for accurately describing the functional behavior of ion channels within their native cellular contexts. First latency (FL) analysis focuses on the time delay between a stimulus is applied and channel opening, providing information about channel activation kinetics. Open Dwell Time (ODT) analysis is particularly useful for studying the kinetics of inactivation, desensitization, and deactivation. Both offer valuable insights into the dynamics of channel transitions. This chapter presents several case studies demonstrating the application of FL and ODT analysis across different levels of channel complexity.