From Einthoven's galvanometer to single-channel recording

This article discusses the innovations which made it possible to do single-channel recording and to study the release of chemical ions from a single channel in the cell membrane. Topics covered include: Herbert Gasser's use of electronics; Detlev Wulf Bronk as scientist and supporter of science; Hodgkin and Huxley probing inside the nerve; synaptic chemical transmission and quantum release; and inhibition and excitation in the horseshoe crab eye.