ABSTRACT
The technique of in vivo microdialysis was designed as a refinement of more limited methods to measure transmitter release such as cortical cups and push-pull cannulae, and has become established as a widely used tool in experimental neuroscience. This chapter explains the theoretical basis of microdialysis; the practical approach, including construction of a dialysis probe; the applicability of the technique; and the shortcomings of the technique. The microdialysis probe can also be utilized as a drug delivery system, allowing specific targeting of drug administration to the area of interest. In vivo microdialysis can be used both in anaesthetized and also conscious animals. When conscious animals are to be employed the dialysis probe is inserted through a previously implanted guide cannula. Most often, microdialysis is used to measure neurotransmitter release in specific brain nuclei; however, the methodology can be utilized for a wide variety of purposes.
