On-chip chemical stimulation of neurons by local and controlled release of neurotransmitter

Annu Int Conf IEEE Eng Med Biol Soc. 2008:2008:2745-8. doi: 10.1109/IEMBS.2008.4649770.

Abstract

This paper describes the fabrication and in vitro testing of a device capable of chemically stimulating individual neurons. Electrophoretic actuation is used to locally induce the release of the neurotransmitter L-glutamate in a network of hippocampal neurons cultured on top of the device. Cell activation by the neurotransmitter is visualized using calcium imaging. Single-cell stimulation is demonstrated close to the release site after application of a voltage of 500 mV. Such a device could provide a useful tool in both basic and clinical neuroscience. In a broader context, this device can be used to locally release small amounts of chemical compounds in Lab-on-Chip and drug delivery applications.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Calcium / chemistry
  • Calcium / metabolism
  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Electric Stimulation
  • Electrodes
  • Equipment Design
  • Fluorescence
  • Glutamic Acid / administration & dosage*
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Models, Theoretical
  • Neurotransmitter Agents / metabolism*
  • Prosthesis Design
  • Rats
  • Synapses / metabolism*
  • Ultraviolet Rays

Substances

  • Neurotransmitter Agents
  • Glutamic Acid
  • Calcium