The Linear Microdialysis Probe consists of a short length of hollow dialysis fiber attached to narrow-bore inlet and outlet tubes. An aqueous perfusion solution, which closely matches the ionic composition of the surrounding extracellular fluid, is pumped through the probe at a constant flow rate. Low molecular weight analytes diffuse in or out of the probe lumen. Large molecules such as proteins or protien-bound analytes are excluded by the membrane. Molecules entering the lumen are swept away by the perfusion fluid. This dialysate is then collected for analysis.
Linear Microdialysis Probes offer a small profile (320 µm OD) and are available with either 10 mm or 5 mm active lengths of dialysis membrane. Custom probes with other membrane lengths are also available. Flexible plastic tubing brackets the membrane window. Long inlet and outlet tubes facilitate subcutaneous externalization of the probes when used in awake animals. An internal fiber strengthens the probe and extends beyond the probe tubing to aid implantation. A plug seals the end of the probe from which the fiber skeleton extends. This plug keeps body fluids from entering the probe during surgery and is cut off before the probe is connected to a syringe pump and perfused. The linear probe is suitable for in vivo sampling from a variety of peripheral tissues, including dermis, subcutaneous tissue, muscle, adipose tissue, liver and other organs.