Patent ID: 7723053
Filing Date: 2010-05-25
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) depolarizing the membrane of the cell with a Na/K pump blocker in test sample 1; c) detecting fluorescence emitted by the voltage-sensitive dye in test sample 1; d) providing a control sample 1 comprising e) depolarizing the membrane of the cell with a Na/K pump blocker in control sample 1; f) detecting fluorescence emitted by the voltage-sensitive dye in the control sample 1; g) comparing the emitted fluorescence from step (c) to the emitted fluorescence from step (f); h) providing a test sample 2 comprising i) depolarizing the membrane of the cell in test sample 2; j) detecting the fluorescence emitted by the voltage-sensitive dye in test sample 2; k) providing a control sample 2 comprising l) depolarizing the membrane of the cell in control sample 2; m) detecting the fluorescence emitted by the voltage-sensitive dye in control sample 2; n) comparing the emitted fluorescence from step (j) relative to an emitted fluorescence from step (m); o) comparing the difference in step (g) with the difference in step (n); wherein a decrease is emitted fluorescence from step (g) relative to the emitted fluorescence in step (n) is indicative of the presence of a selective persistent Na