Analysis of exocytotic events recorded by amperometry

Nat Methods. 2005 Sep;2(9):651-8. doi: 10.1038/nmeth782.

Abstract

Amperometry is widely used to study exocytosis of neurotransmitters and hormones in various cell types. Analysis of the shape of the amperometric spikes that originate from the oxidation of monoamine molecules released during the fusion of individual secretory vesicles provides information about molecular steps involved in stimulation-dependent transmitter release. Here we present an overview of the methodology of amperometric signal processing, including (i) amperometric signal acquisition and filtering, (ii) detection of exocytotic events and determining spike shape characteristics, and (iii) data manipulation and statistical analysis. The purpose of this review is to provide practical guidelines for performing amperometric recordings of exocytotic activity and interpreting the results based on shape characteristics of individual release events.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms*
  • Animals
  • Biosensing Techniques / instrumentation*
  • Biosensing Techniques / methods*
  • Cell Membrane Permeability / physiology*
  • Electrochemistry / methods*
  • Exocytosis / physiology*
  • Humans