以微電極陣列對細胞阻抗之量測分析

Abstract

Microelectrode array (MEA) has been used in cell physiology for many years. It features the non-invasive, long-term, and space resolution method to record cell signals. By applying MEA, the neuron extracellular voltage could be record and the electrophysiology could be further researched. Cell impedance is another method to evaluate the condition of the cell culture. Previous researches showed that the cell attachment and spread on the electrode could be detected by the change of the impedance. Thus the impedance could be a method to evaluate the condition of the cell growth, proliferation or apoptosis. In this research, microelectrode array has been fabricated by photolithography process. Indium-Tin Oxide (ITO) was chosen as the conducting material for its conductivity and transparency, and was regarded to be non-toxicity for cell culture. The ITO pattern was covered with Silicon-dioxide (SiO2) insulating layer. A large reference electrode was made by Silver/Silver Chloride (Ag/AgCl) on top of the SiO2 layer. Human kidney epithelial cells were cultured on the surface of the MEA. Impedance of the cells was measured from 1 kHz to 100 kHz. High impedance could be measured if the cells attached to the surface in good condition. While the cells grow quite well on the SiO2 covered surface, the AgCl surface had an inhibitive effect on cell attachment and proliferation. Also the measuring process involved input high frequency voltage wave, which might had deteriorated effect on the attached cells.