Fast and precise positioning of single cells on planar electrode substrates - A new method with potential benefits for biosensor applications and the study of neural networks

For cell biosensors and for studying neural networks using planar electrode substrates, a suitable technique for positioning single cells on electrodes was needed. We reported a new method for fast and efficient positioning of single cells on ring electrodes by controlled suction through holes. We described the microfabrication of electrode substrates with microholes and the cell positioning procedure. L929 cells and Neuro 2A cells could be positioned in parallel without cell damage.; One of the major problems with using biosensors is the establishment of good contact between cells and electrodes. To overcome this problem requires a substrate-electrode arrangement that can achieve precise and tight cell-electrode contact. The electrical potential recorded by an extracellular electrode is highly sensitive to the spatial positioning of cells relative to the electrodes. A technique for the fast and precise positioning of single cells on substrate ring electrodes has been developed. The technique uses controlled suction through micro suction holes. Using this technique, the L929 and Neuro 2A cells were positioned in parallel without cell damage.