The Advantage of Microelectrode Technologies for Measurement in Delicate Biological Environments Such as Brain Tissue

Measuring the concentration of neurotransmitters in the extracellular space of living brain tissue is vital in our understanding of neurochemical events. Electrochemical microelectrodes and microsensors are commonly used for in vivo neurotransmitter monitoring; each makes a unique contribution to the study of neuroscience. Electrochemical methods are versatile techniques, due to the small size of microelectrodes and the high spatial and temporal resolution of microsensors. These methods are gaining widespread attention especially in the study of neurochemical environments and molecules. This chapter will discuss the advantages and applications of microdialysis, microelectrodes, and enzyme-based microsensors as they apply to neuroscience. Specific applications of dopamine measurements will be also addressed and a brief description of what the future holds for microsensors. Finally, this chapter will focus on the promising role of enzyme-based electrochemical microsensors.