Abstract
We have previously synthesized a caged form of the use-dependent N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor ion channel blocker MK801 and used intracellular photolysis of this compound to demonstrate the subcellular location of NMDA receptor ion channels involved in synaptic plasticity. Here, we discuss considerations regarding the choice of caging molecule, synthesis and the potential uses for caged ion channel blockers in neurophysiology.