What does impedance refer to in electrophysiological measurements?

Impedance in electrophysiological measurements primarily refers to the resistance of biological tissue to electrical current. This concept is crucial because it provides insight into how easily electrical signals can traverse through different types of tissues during measurement. In the context of electrophysiology, impedance affects the quality of the signals captured, as different tissues have varied impedance properties that can alter the behavior of an electrical current.

Understanding impedance is essential for interpreting data accurately, as high impedance can indicate a poor connection or a change in the tissue properties, which may lead to weaker signals. Proper management of impedance is vital for ensuring optimal signal quality and reliable measurements in various clinical and research applications.