What are microdialysis probes?

What are microdialysis probes?

A microdialysis probe is a small “Y” shaped catheter containing an inlet and outlet port with a fibrous, semi-permeable membrane at the bottom tip. The microdialysis probe is gently inserted through a previously surgically implanted guide cannula to allow the membrane to rest in the desired brain tissue.

What is in vivo microdialysis?

In vivo microdialysis involves the insertion of a small semipermeable membrane into a specific region of a living animal, such as the brain. Microdialysis is a sampling technique that must be coupled with an analytical method to identify and quantify chemical components of the dialysate.

Which technique makes it possible to measure the in vivo effects of drugs on extracellular neurotransmitter levels in the brain of animal models?

The in vivo microdialysis technique allows measurement of neurotransmitters such as acetycholine (ACh), the biogenic amines including dopamine (DA), norepinephrine (NE) and serotonin (5-HT), amino acids such as glutamate (Glu) and gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), as well as the metabolites of the aforementioned …

Why is dopamine both excitatory and inhibitory?

Dopamine has effects that are both excitatory and inhibitory. It is associated with reward mechanisms in the brain. Drugs such as cocaine, heroin, and alcohol can temporarily increase its levels in the blood. A typical secretion of dopamine in your bloodstream can contribute to motivation.

How are linear probes used for microdialysis?

The linear probes consist of a tubing in which the middle part has a window with a membrane, where microdialysis takes place. Corresponding guide cannulae facilitate easy insertion into organs, such as brain, muscles or blood vessels. NEW! Solutions for Microdialysis of Large Molecules

Do you need sterilization for basi microdialysis probes?

When using BASi® brain microdialysis probes and guides, you will need a probe clamp to fit to your existing stereotaxic frame. Sterilization is available upon request and customization is available for intracerebral and other probes. Contact us for more information.

What kind of probes are available at CMA?

A variety of probe types with more than twenty different membrane and shaft length combinations are available from CMA. Please try our Probe Selection Guide for a suggestion on which probe best suits your application. All of our probes have the same concentric construction except the linear probes.

Where does the perfusate fluid go in a probe?

An inner cannula leads the perfusion fluid from the inlet to the tip of the probe where it comes in contact with the semi-permeable membrane. The fluid then continues up through the outer shaft on its way to the outlet. All metal parts are treated to prevent oxidation of labile compounds in the perfusate.