Neurotransmitter Analyzer
A neurotransmitter analyzer is a device used in research and diagnostics to measure the levels of chemical messengers, or neurotransmitters, in biological samples. It is an essential tool for neuroscientists and clinicians studying conditions such as depression, anxiety, Parkinson's disease, and schizophrenia, which are linked to imbalances in brain chemistry.
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Product Description
A neurotransmitter analyzer is a device used in research and diagnostics to measure the levels of chemical messengers, or neurotransmitters, in biological samples. It is an essential tool for neuroscientists and clinicians studying conditions such as depression, anxiety, Parkinson's disease, and schizophrenia, which are linked to imbalances in brain chemistry.
Technical specifications
Sample handling and preparation
- Small sample volume: A critical feature, especially for microdialysis samples, where only microliters of extracellular fluid are collected.
- High throughput vs. real-time: Systems can be configured for high throughput (analyzing many collected samples) or for on-line microdialysis (continuous, real-time analysis of a perfusate).
- Derivatization: Some neurotransmitters, like GABA and acetylcholine, require enzymatic conversion or chemical derivatization for sensitive detection.
Performance metrics
- Sensitivity: Analyzers must detect extremely low concentrations. Detection limits can range from low picomolar (pmol/L) for monoamines using UHPLC-ECD to nanomolar (nmol/L) for other types of neurotransmitters.
- Separation efficiency: Analyzers for complex samples must minimize peak overlap, especially when detecting multiple compounds with similar chemical properties.
- Robustness: Instruments need to be robust and reliable to handle challenging biological matrices, which contain many other interfering biochemicals.