Fabrication of microelectrodes, suction electrodes, and focal electrodes

The Drosophila larval neuromuscular junction (NMJ) shares many structural and functional similarities to synapses in other animals, including humans. These include the basic feature of synaptic transmission, as well as the molecular mechanisms regulating the synaptic vesicle cycle. Because of its large size, easy accessibility, and well-characterized genetics, the fly NMJ remains an excellent model system for dissecting the cellular and molecular mechanisms of synaptic transmission. This protocol details some basic methods for manufacturing microelectrodes used for intracellular recording and two-electrode voltage-clamp (TEVC), and loose patch electrodes used for focal recording. In addition, a method is provided for manufacturing homemade suction electrodes used for nerve stimulation.