Protocol for whole-cell patch-clamp recording and post hoc identification of hippocampal CA2 pyramidal neurons in adult mouse brain slices

We present a protocol for whole-cell recordings from hippocampal CA2 pyramidal neurons in acute adult mouse brain slices. We describe the preparation of viable dorsal hippocampal slices, the visual identification and recording of CA2 neurons, and intracellular labeling. We then detail post hoc immunohistochemical verification using CA2-specific markers. This approach enables reliable functional characterization of CA2 neurons and unambiguous confirmation of their anatomical localization. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Le Bail et al.<sup>1</sup>.

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Publication Details

Journal
STAR Protocols
Published
2026-03-27
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xpro.2026.104470
Primary Topic
Neurogenesis and neuroplasticity mechanisms
Type
article
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article

Protocol for whole-cell patch-clamp recording and post hoc identification of hippocampal CA2 pyramidal neurons in adult mouse brain slices

Laurent Nguyen, Dominique Engel
STAR Protocols
Neurogenesis and neuroplasticity mechanisms
article

Protocol for whole-cell patch-clamp recording and post hoc identification of hippocampal CA2 pyramidal neurons in adult mouse brain slices

Laurent Nguyen, Dominique Engel
article en

Abstract

We present a protocol for whole-cell recordings from hippocampal CA2 pyramidal neurons in acute adult mouse brain slices. We describe the preparation of viable dorsal hippocampal slices, the visual identification and recording of CA2 neurons, and intracellular labeling. We then detail post hoc immunohistochemical verification using CA2-specific markers. This approach enables reliable functional characterization of CA2 neurons and unambiguous confirmation of their anatomical localization. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Le Bail et al.<sup>1</sup>.

STAR ProtocolsVol. 7(2)
University of Liège (BE), Walloon Excellence in Lifesciences and Biotechnology (BE)
Zero hunger
Openalex Percentile: Top 19%
Neurogenesis and neuroplasticity mechanisms
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