Voltammetry in Behaving Animals

Abstract

Fast-scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV) is an electrochemical technique that provides rapid and reliable detection of key brain neurotransmitters (e.g., dopamine and other monoamines) with minimal tissue disruption. The technique can be applied to behaving animals, allowing for real-time monitoring of neurotransmitter release and uptake across a variety of behavioral situations. Changes in current due to the oxidation and reduction (redox reaction) of chemicals at the surface of the working electrode are recorded and later converted to concentration. Although the high spatial and temporal resolution of FSCV offers unprecedented access to the neurochemistry of brain function during behavior, a basic understanding of electrochemistry, instrumentation, and electrode performance is required to ensure accurate data analysis and interpretation. In this chapter, we introduce the basic concepts and methodology of FSCV and outline key experimental procedures.