Cell analysis microchip fabrication and testing

Contacts:

Massimo Alberti, DTU Nanotech, 4525-6315 (mal@nanotech.dtu.dk)

Detlef Snakenborg, DTU Nanotech, 4525-5785 (ds@nanotech.dtu.dk)

http://www.nanotech.dtu.dk/Medarbejdere/Staff/Alberti_Massimo

 

Schematic of the traditional patch-clamp technique (left) and of the patch-clamp microchannel array approach (right).

SEM images of the Si/SiO2 chip (left and center). The assembled PMCA system (right).

Neurobiology presents extremely interesting challenges to lab-on-a-chip devices and can gain unique advantages from microtechnology. At DTU Nanotech, we are aiming to fabricate an advanced microchip for neural network elecrophysiological analysis based on the patch-clamp technique.  Patch-clamping is the gold standard technique for studying how biochemicals impact neural function.

Our goal is to integrate an individually addressable Patch-Clamp Microchannel Array (PMCA) in a fluidic structure to allow simultaneous patch-clamping of many neurons of the same network and monitor signal transmission in response to electrical and chemical stimuli.

The project involves microfabrication of a silicon based microchip in the Danchip cleanroom, its electrical and fluidic characterization, packaging in a micromilled holder, performing cell-trapping tests and, eventually, patch-clamp experiments as well as electrophysiological recording. The project may also involve numerical simulation of the system.

Due to its interdisciplinary, it is possible to tailor the focus of the project to your background and interest:

• cleanroom microfabrication and chip characterization;
• glass microfabrication and silicon/glass bonding;
• polymer micromilling and system packaging;
• cell trapping tests and microfluidics;
• patch-clamp experiments;
• numerical simulations.