Neuromodulation plays a critical role in regulating brain function and its dysregulation is implicated in the pathogenesis of numerous neurological and psychiatric disorders. However, only in the last few years have optical tools become available to probe the spatial and temporal profiles of neuromodulator signaling, including dopamine, with the requisite resolution to uncover mechanisms of neuromodulation. In this review, we summarize the current state of synthetic nanomaterial-based optical nanosensors for monitoring neurotransmission with high spatial and temporal resolution. Specifically, we highlight how synthetic nanosensors can elucidate the spatial distribution of neuromodulator release sites and report the temporal dynamics and spatial diffusion of neuromodulator release. Next, we outline advantages and limitations of currently available nanosensors and their recent application to imaging endogenous dopamine release in brain tissue. Finally, we discuss strategies to improve nanosensors for in vivo use, with implications for translational applications.

神经调节在调节大脑功能中起着至关重要的作用，其失调与许多神经和精神疾病的发病机制有关。然而，直到最近几年，光学工具才可用于探测神经调节信号（包括多巴胺）的空间和时间分布，并具有揭示神经调节机制所需的分辨率。在这篇综述中，我们总结了基于合成纳米材料的光学纳米传感器的现状，用于以高空间和时间分辨率监测神经传递。具体来说，我们强调合成纳米传感器如何阐明神经调节剂释放位点的空间分布并报告神经调节剂释放的时间动态和空间扩散。接下来，我们概述了当前可用的纳米传感器的优点和局限性及其最近在脑组织内源性多巴胺释放成像方面的应用。最后，我们讨论了改进体内使用纳米传感器的策略，及其对转化应用的影响。