Some membrane characteristics of single isolated nodose ganglion cells studied under current and voltage clamp conditions.

The membrane characteristics of rabbit nodose ganglion neurons isolated by enzymatic digestion were investigated under current and voltage clamp conditions. The membrane of 5-10% of these cells appeared quite intact after enzymatic digestion and mechanical isolation, and this preparation can be successfully employed in biophysical studies. In fact, the membrane and action potential parameters of healthy cells were similar to those reported in whole ganglia or sliced preparations. Five distinct voltage-dependent membrane currents were recorded: fast inward, slow inward and slow outward currents elicited by depolarizing pulses; hyperpolarizing pulses elicited two currents, one associated with rectification and another occurring on the return of a hyperpolarizing pulse.