Hybrid biosensors
US6051422A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 9, 1998 |
| Grant date | Apr 18, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 9, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC C)Chemistry; Metallurgy
- CPC primaryC12M41/46
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The invention relates to an apparatus and method for monitoring cells and to a method for monitoring changes in cells upon addition of an analyte to the cell's environment, comprising a device which includes an array of microelectrodes disposed in a cell culture chamber, upon which array a portion of cells adhere to the surfaces of the microelectrodes. The diameter of the cells are larger than the diameters of the microelectrodes. A voltage signal is applied across each of the microelectrodes and a reference electrode. Detection and monitoring of the signals resulting from the application of the voltage signal provides information regarding the electrical characteristics of the individual cells, including impedance (combined cell membrane capacitance and conductance), action potential parameters, cell membrane capacitance, cell membrane conductance, and cell/substrate seal resistance. Such an invention is useful in detecting or screening a variety of biological and chemical agents.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.