Sun Y., Vernier P.T., Behrend M., Marcu L., Gundersen M.A.
University of Southern California, US
Keywords: electroperturbation, liftoff, megavolt electric field, micorchamber, microelectronic fabrication, microscopy, SU-8
Nanosecond pulsed electric fields pass through the external membranes of biological cells (which have typical response times much greater than nanoseconds) and perturb fast-responding intracellular structures and processes. To enable real-time imaging and investigation of these phenomena, a microchamber with integral electrode walls and optical path for observing individual cells exposed to electric pulses was designed and fabricated utilizing photolithographic and microelectronic fabrication methods. SU-8 photoresist was patterned to form straight sidewalls 10 to 30 m in height, and gold was deposited on the opposing walls and the top for a conductive, non-reactive electrode surface. Results from observations with the microchamber in real-time electroperturbation imaging experiments include intracellular calcium bursts and membrane phospholipid translocation. Real-time nanoelectropulse investigations with microfabricated imaging tools open new pathways for the study and engineering of biological systems.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 1, Technical Proceedings of the 2004 NSTI Nanotechnology Conference and Trade Show, Volume 1
Published: March 7, 2004
Pages: 485 - 488
Industry sector: Sensors, MEMS, Electronics
Topics: Advanced Manufacturing, Nanoelectronics
ISBN: 0-9728422-7-6