Fast-scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV) has been used for over 30 years for the detection of biomolecules including catecholamines. Disk-shaped carbon fiber microelectrodes, used for single cell measurements, are generally constructed in one of two ways. The more traditional approach involves trimming the tip of the microelectrode, dipping it into an epoxy resin, curing the resin to hardness, and finally beveling to expose a disk-shaped surface. While this method produces electrodes that are very robust, it is messy, involves the use of toxic reagents, and the overall fabrication process can take several days. Alternatively, a cylindrically-shaped microelectrode may be encased by an insulating polymer, cured to crosslink the polymer, and finally scalpel-trimmed to expose a disk-shaped surface. However, this approach suffers from inconsistencies in the coating process and the inability to produce disk-shaped carbon fiber microelectrodes with an ellipsoid geometry. In this work, alternative strategies are presented for the fabrication of disk-shaped carbon fiber microelectrodes. The <i>in vitro</i> performance of these sensors is characterized, specifically in regards to noise level, background charging current, and their measured response towards the neurotransmitter dopamine. This work will assist others using FSCV by providing safer and more robust methods for the fabrication of disk-shaped carbon fiber microelectrodes.

Alternative strategies for the fabrication of disk-shaped carbon fiber microelectrodes for fast-scan cyclic voltammetry measurements

251st National Meeting (2016)

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