A hyperpolarization-activated chloride current in Xenopus laevis oocytes under voltage-clamp

Voltage-clamp experiments have been performed on ovulated Xenopus laevis oocytes. Two kinds of oocytes were studied: mature oocytes presenting the white spot due to germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) were found to be essentially unexcitable; oocytes without the white spot appeared to possess ionic channels which open transiently on hyperpolarization. The current is carried by chloride ions and, in Holtfreter's solution, has a reversal potential at approximately - 15 mV.