Carbon fiber microelectrodes (CFMEs) have been used to detect neurotransmitters and other biomolecules using fast-scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV) for the past few decades. This technique can be used to measure neurotransmitters like dopamine and, more recently, physiologically relevant neuropeptides. Oxytocin, a pleiotropic peptide hormone, is physiologically important for adaptation, development, reproduction, and social behavior. This neuropeptide functions as a stress-coping molecule, an anti-inflammatory agent, and serves as an antioxidant with protective effects especially during adversity or trauma. Here, we measure tyrosine using the Modified Sawhorse Waveform (MSW), enabling enhanced electrode sensitivity for the amino acid and peptide, decreased surface fouling, and codetection with other catecholamines. We also measure oxytocin through the oxidation of its tyrosine residue. Additionally, we demonstrate that applying the MSW on CFMEs allows for real time measurements of exogenously applied oxytocin on rat brain slices. These results may serve as novel assays for neuropeptide detection in a fast, sub-second timescale with possible implications for <i>in vivo</i> measurements and further understanding of the physiological role of oxytocin.

Carbon fiber microelectrode sensor for the voltammetric detection of the neuropeptide oxytocin

ACS Spring 2022

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