摘要 |
A method for identifying a Na<SUP>+</SUP> channel blocker, including providing a cell containing a Na<SUP>+</SUP> channel, demonstrating both a transient and a persistent current. The cell includes a potassium (K<SUP>+</SUP>) channel and a Na/K ATPase (Na<SUP>+</SUP> pump). A fluorescent dye is disposed into the well. The fluorescent dye is sensitive to change in cell membrane potential in order to enable optical measurement of cell membrane potential. A Na<SUP>+</SUP> channel blocker, to be identified, is added to the well and a stimulating current is passed through the cell in an amount sufficient to generate an action potential before and after the addition of the Na<SUP>+</SUP> channel blocker. Thereafter, a change in cell membrane potential is optically measured.
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