Research progress of technology for exocytosis detection in the nervous system

Vesicular exocytosis and neurotransmitter release play a key role in regulating various fundamental signal transmission and higher-order capacities in the nervous system. A slight variation in the process of exocytosis may change neuronal communication, plasticity and even whole nervous activity; moreover, disorder in neurotransmitter release may cause severe nerve diseases. Therefore, monitoring exocytosis processes and quantifying relevant parameters have been essential for ulteriorly investigating the mechanisms of neurotransmission and pathogenesis in corresponding diseases. Recently, various exocytosis detection technologies based on optical, electrochemical and electrical signals with high performance levels have been developed and applied in different neuronal experiments. In this review, we have systematically summarized technical principles and the research progress of these frequently used processes, including brain microdialysis, novel imaging technology, fluorescent probes, and electroanalytical and electrophysiological methods.