Recording Methods of Neuronal Cell Activity Using Microelectrodes

Abstract

Technological advancements in microelectrode recording have contributed to the field of neurophysiology. Herein, we first review the historical background of the invention of microelectrodes. Next, epoch-making neurophysiological studies using microelectrodes, such as resting potentials, action potentials, inhibitory postsynaptic potentials, and single ion channel currents, are presented. In addition, we describe the molecular mechanisms of synapses involved in memory, mapping of the visual cortex, and functions of place and grid cells for spatial navigation, which were revealed using microelectrodes. We further describe recently developed technologies that combine electrophysiology and molecular biology, including those that contributed to identification of receptor proteins for thermal or mechanical stimuli. When combined with molecular biology, electrophysiology using microelectrodes remains useful.