On depolarization-evoked exocytosis as a function of calcium entry: possibilities and pitfalls.
Secretion from many endocrine cells is a result of calcium-regulated exocytosis due to Ca(2+) influx. Using the patch-clamp technique, voltage pulses can be applied to the cells to open Ca(2+) channels, resulting in a measurable Ca(2+) current, and evoke exocytosis, which can be seen as an increase in membrane capacitance. A common tool for evaluating the relation between Ca(2+) influx and exocyto