Spicer Lecture, Prof. R. Mark Wightman, UNC Chapel Hill

Voltammetric Measurements of Rapid Chemical Signalling in the Brain by Dopamine

Neurotransmitters such as dopamine relay information between neurons. Using carbon-fiber microelectrodes we have developed a voltammetric-based sensing scheme to monitor dopamine in the brain during behaviour. The electrodes have micron dimensions and can be used on millisecond time scales. The voltammetric data is evaluated with principal component regression and multiple contributors to the electrochemical signals can be resolved. Furthermore, the electrodes can be used in an electrophysiological mode to sense the transient voltages that arise from neuronal firing. When the electrode is alternated between electrophysiological and chemical sensing on a subsecond time scale, a complete picture of the fluctuations of dopamine and its actions on adjacent neurons can be determined. These real-time measurements provide an entirely new view of the role of dopamine in the brain.

For more information contact Dr. Carrie Shepler (404-385-1342).