In vivo microdialysis for nonapeptides in rat brain - A practical guide

Microdialysis provides a direct approach to monitor changes in interneurona l communication by monitoring the fluctuation of local, extracellular conce ntrations of potential neurotransmitters/neuromodulators. The present artic le is based on more than 10 years experience in performing microdialysis ex periments in freely moving animals with inexpensive self-made microdialysis probes and accessories for monitoring of intracerebral neuropeptide releas e. On the basis of this experience, we provide a guide for the construction of different types of microdialysis probes and their application. Furtherm ore, we give information about organizing and performing a microdialysis ex periment that can easily be adapted to fit individual applications needs. F inally, on the basis of theoretical background information advantages as we ll as limitations of the microdialysis technique are discussed with the int ent to provide help to potential users for designing an appropriate microdi alysis experiment. (C) 2001 Academic Press.