Sensing of Neuron Signals Using Microelectromechanical Systems
Abstract
The goal of our program was to access the viability of using MEMS devices to detect tiring signatures from neurons. In order to evaluate these devices we needed to prepare and test MEMS devices biologically relevant situations and develop systems that will be sensitive to the rising and falling levels of potassium, present during neural activity. Several different MEMS structures were tested and one was found that gave a measurable resonance signal in water with ionic strength comparable to biological systems. The MEMS device showed efficient cation binding, however it was not selective to potassium. A potassium specific crown ether surface treatment was applied to the MEMS device, however this surface treatment did not lead to selective potassium binding. We are currently examining the surface coating to determine if the crown ether density was too low for efficient potassium binding. In a parallel effort we have developed methods for selective cell binding to TiN surface. Cell adhesion molecules were anchored to the TiN surface, promoting the adhesion of dissociated cells.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 06, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA414552
Entities
People
- Charles E. Mckenna
- Eun Sok Kim
- Mark Thompson
- Michel Baudry
- Theodore W. Berger
Organizations
- University of Southern California