Open-source Igor Pro toolkit for PatchMaster/Nanion Patchliner electrophysiology analysis

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Hi everyone,

I would like to share an open-source Igor Pro toolkit that we are developing for the analysis of electrophysiological recordings exported from HEKA PatchMaster, with a particular focus on data generated using automated patch-clamp systems such as the Nanion Patchliner.

Repository:
https://github.com/Gfernandezv/CBIB_igor_patchmaster

The goal of the project is to provide a reproducible Igor Pro workflow for common post-acquisition analysis steps in patch-clamp experiments, including:

  • batch processing of PatchMaster-exported traces;
  • baseline correction and drift removal;
  • peak current extraction;
  • analysis of current–voltage relationships;
  • estimation of passive membrane properties such as capacitance and series resistance;
  • organization of output waves and summary values for downstream analysis.

The toolkit is currently written as a set of Igor Pro procedure files (.ipf) and is being actively developed. At this stage, it is mainly intended for users working with PatchMaster exports who want to standardize repetitive analysis steps and reduce manual processing.

We would be very interested in feedback from the Igor Pro community, especially regarding:

  • best practices for structuring larger Igor Pro procedure projects;
  • compatibility across Igor Pro versions;
  • suggestions for documentation and example datasets;
  • ways to improve usability for users outside our own laboratory workflow;
  • recommendations for testing or validating Igor Pro analysis code.

The project is released under the GPL-3.0 license. Contributions, issues, suggestions, and critical feedback are very welcome.

Best regards,
Germán Fernández