Because of their central role in biological computation and storage of information, synapses are of special interest in neurobiology. A synapse represents a very compact subcellular compartment with diameters less than 1 μm. Understanding the detailed molecular events that regulate presynaptic function requires high-resolution methods that provide quantitative information combined with molecular specificity. In recent years, numerous technological advances, including optogenetic methods and live-cell imaging, have facilitated probing the physiology of individual synapses. Combination of these techniques with microfluidic culture platforms offers a powerful way to study synaptic biology.
