Researchers find new way to enhance the sensitivity of electrochemical micro-sensors A team led by researchers at the New York University Tandon School of Engineering have found a new way of enhancing the performance of electrochemical micro-sensors. This discovery could lead to the detection of biomolecules, such as dopamine, at lower concentrations than is possible today. Their findings are described in a paper published in the journal Biosensors and Bioelectronics. Dopamine molecule activity in the brain is associated with important functions such as motivation, motor control, reinforcement, and reward. Researchers and clinicians commonly monitor neurotransmitter activity in the brain through electrochemical micro-sensors made of carbon. However, due to their limited sensitivity, existing micro-sensors can detect only large changes in dopamine levels. They can also record from only one site in the brain at a time.