Dynamic changes in extracellular fluid ascorbic acid monitored by in vivo electrochemistry

Voltammetric carbon fiber electrodes and a measuring protocol were designed to monitor extracellular changes in rat brain ascorbic acid (AA). Very fast variations of AA (less than 60 s in duration) as well as much slower changes can be followed. Basal and stimulated levels of AA, determined with the enzyme ascorbate oxidase (AAO), confirm the detection is selective for AA. Microinjections of glutamate (Glu) into various brain regions gave rise to rapid electrochemical signals ascribed to the efflux of AA into the extracellular fluid.