Patent ID: 7754440
Filing Date: 2010-07-13
Classification: G01N

Abstract:
1. A method for identifying a selective blocker of a persistent Na + channel whereby the method comprises the steps of: a) providing a test sample 1 comprising b) detecting fluorescence emitted by the voltage-sensitive dye in test sample 1; c) adding a potential Na d) detecting fluorescence emitted by the voltage-sensitive dye in test sample 1; e) determining a relative emitted fluorescence 1 by comparing the emitted fluorescence from step (b) with the emitted fluorescence from step (d); f) providing a test sample 2 comprising g) depolarizing the membrane of the cell in test sample 2; h) detecting the fluorescence emitted by the voltage-sensitive dye in test sample 2; i) providing a control sample 2 comprising j) depolarizing the membrane of the cell in control sample 2; k) detecting the fluorescence emitted by the voltage-sensitive dye in control sample 2; l) determining a relative emitted fluorescence 2 by comparing the emitted fluorescence from step (h) relative to an emitted fluorescence from step (k); m) comparing the relative emitted fluorescence in step (e) with the relative emitted fluorescence in step (l); wherein a decrease in emitted fluorescence from step (e) relative to the emitted fluorescence in step (l) is indicative of the presence of a selective persistent Na