Inexpensive techniques for measuring [Ca2+]i changes using a photomultiplier tube.
Photomultiplier tubes remain among the most sensitive methods for detecting light. Their cost is one to two orders of magnitude less than that of other comparably sensitive detectors. Advances in the associated electronics have lowered the cost and reduced the size of the instruments. If an investigator is willing to go to the primary suppliers and has access to a machine shop, systems sensitive enough for fluorescence measurements on single cells (or portions of a single cell) can be assembled for remarkably little money. In this chapter, we have emphasized a design using particular suppliers because we have used this system in our laboratory. The reader should not assume that we have explored all possibilities; further, progress in these areas tends to be rapid and new developments may open up additional opportunities.
Robinson
K R
KR
Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907.
Keating
T J
TJ
Cork
R J
RJ
D000331:Aequorin / Q000032:analysis; D000818:Animals; D002118:Calcium / Q000032:analysis* / Q000378:metabolism*; D002460:Cell Line; D003600:Cytosol / Q000737:chemistry; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D008856:Microscopy, Fluorescence / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D009865:Oocytes / Q000378:metabolism; D010783:Photometry / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D014981:Xenopus
D000331:Aequorin; D002118:Calcium