Editing Hyperpolarization (biology) (section)

==Experimental technique==
[[File:Patch pipette model.jpg|thumb|right|This image shows a model of a patch clamp used in neuroscience. The pipette tip is placed at an ion channel opening and a current is applied and measured using a voltage clamp.]]
Hyperpolarization is a change in membrane potential. [[Neuroscientist]]s measure it using a technique known as [[patch clamping]] that allows them to record ion currents passing through individual channels. This is done using a glass micropipette, also called a patch pipette, with a 1 micrometer diameter. There is a small patch that contains a few ion channels and the rest is sealed off, making this the point of entry for the current. Using an amplifier and a [[voltage clamp]], which is an electronic feedback circuit, allows the experimenter to maintain the membrane potential at a fixed point and the voltage clamp then measures tiny changes in current flow. The membrane currents giving rise to hyperpolarization are either an increase in outward current or a decrease in inward current.<ref name="Becker" />