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Abstract

A chemical detection and analysis system performs chemical measurements using microsensors. The in vivo or in vitro system records chemical concentrations of any substance that can be oxidized or reduced at the sensor surface in response to a voltage waveform applied to a reference electrode. The electrochemical technique has utility relative to molecules that are electroactive. Diffusion and metabolism of these chemicals are tracked in real time. A visual display of the measurements is provided in near real time. The system consists of: a 32 bit, digital computer; application software; an I/O board with analog to digital convertors, digital to analog converters, and digital input/output capability; a potentiostat; one to four microsensors; and a reference electrode. Calibrated microsensors, of carbon, platinum, or gold, are placed in brain tissue or other aqueous environments to detect chemical activity. A reference electrode is placed in the tissue at a location that is spaced from the sensors. A pulse cyclic or a constant electrical potential is generated and applied to the reference electrode to induce an oxidation or reduction current condition at the sensor surface. Calibration of the sensors, acquisition and storage of data, and auto-analysis of data, as well as user defined data analysis and modification, are performed under control of application software and hardware.

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First Claim