Patch clamp analysis of the respiratory chain in Bacillus subtilis

► Bacillus subtilis cells are enlarged as large as 10-20 μm in diameter. ► Giant protoplasts contain a vacuole-like structure, named provacuole. ► Provacuole is like an everted membrane vesicle. ► Patch clamp technique is applicable to provacuole. ► NADH-induced current was observed in provacuole.