In vivo neurochemical monitoring by microdialysis and capillary separations

Microdialysis is valuable for studying the neurochemical changes underlying behavior. Recent advances include the application of the high-sensitivity methods of capillary electrophoresis and capillary liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry to dialysate analysis. These methods have improved temporal resolution, spatial resolution, multi-analyte capability and potential for compound discovery. Advances in neurochemical monitoring based on high-sensitivity methods and novel approaches to compound discovery are revealing the chemical basis of behavior and identifying pharmacological targets for mental illness treatments.