Patch-Clamp Techniques for Single Endolysosomal Vesicle Analysis

Endolysosomal ion channels are critical for endolysosomal ion and pH homeostasis, membrane potential regulation, and vesicle trafficking. However, electrophysiologically accessing these channels within small intracellular vesicles has been a challenge. The development of endolysosomal patch-clamp techniques has been instrumental in overcoming this barrier, allowing for the direct measurement of ion channel activity in endolysosomal membranes. Compared to existing planar patch-clamp techniques, endolysosomal patch-clamp can simultaneously record multiple cells and easily combine with other measurement methods. Manual operation offers the advantage of visualizing targeted vesicles. It also addresses the limitation of the indispensable presence of Ca²⁺ on one side of the endolysosomal membrane, increasing the flexibility of experimental design. Utilizing endolysosomal patch-clamp techniques enables the direct measurement and analysis of ion channel activity within endolysosomes. Given the close link between aberrant endolysosomal ion channel function and diseases such as neurodegenerative diseases and metabolic disorders, investigating and modulating these channels may unveil new drug targets. By restoring intracellular ion balance, we may alleviate or cure related diseases. Therefore, this technique is pivotal for discovering new drug targets and developing relevant medications.