Abstract:Currently, real time monitoring the release of neurotransmitters from living cells with high temporal and spatial resolution remains challenging. In recent years, quantitative analysis of neurotransmitter releasing has been achieved by developing different electrochemical monitoring techniques, and cell release patterns have been investigated. In addition, monitoring with high resolution and sensitivity can be achieved by modifying the electrode surface or regulating the electrode dimensions. The combining of different monitoring techniques can further improve the monitoring capability. This paper reviews the mechanism of electrochemical detection of neurotransmitter, the development of microelectrode and nanoelectrode for neurotransmitter detection, the coupling of electrochemical technology and imaging technology to realize the high temporal and spatial resolution. The paper also provides some outlooks in the future direction. Based on these reviews and future perspectives, taking the advantages of different monitoring techniques, the paper proposes the coupling among the nanoelectrode and imaging technology, as well as other monitoring techniques, aiming at greatly elevating the capability of nanoelectrode in neurotransmitter monitoring.