Electrochemistry in and of the Fly Brain

Studying brain function and neuronal communication has been always crucial due to the complexity of these systems. A great deal of technology and model systems have been developed to study this subject. Yet, very small invertebrate systems such as the fruit fly, Drosophila are excellent models and often have better defined and more easily manipulated genetics. This review focuses on in vivo, ex vivo, and in vitro measurements of biogenic amines by electrochemical techniques on the fly nervous system. The methods include capillary electrophoresis, fast scan cyclic voltammetry, and chronoamperometry have been used to study both larval and adult central nervous systems. Better understanding of brain function in model systems should aid in finding solutions to biological and bioanalytical challenges related to human brain function and also neurodegenerative disease.