Non-selective cation channel in bullfrog taste cell membrane.

Using single channel recordings of the patch clamp method, we found first that cation channels were present in the bullfrog taste cell membranes. These channels were widely distributed over the taste cell membrane. The conductance examined with inside-out patches was 30.7 +/- 5.7 pS (mean +/- S.D., n = 13). The permeability ratio of the cation channel to monovalent cations was PK:PCS:PNa = 1.18:1.00:0.70, indicating that the channels are non-selective.