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Nanotechnology Research
Posted on November 11th, 2009 No commentsIMEC (www.imec.com), a nanotechnology research center based in Leuven, Belgium, has developed a unique microchip with microscopic nail structures that enables close communication between electronics and biological cells.
IMEC’s micronail chip (see photo) can be used to study the communication mechanisms between cells, such as cardiomyocytes (heart cells) or neurons (brain cells). The electrodes in the chip are the size of cells and even smaller. They consist of tiny nail structures made of a metal stem covered with an oxide layer, and a conductive (e.g. gold or titanium nitride) tip. When cells are applied on the chip surface, the cell membranes naturally engulf the nail structures, thereby creating a strong contact with the electrode. This close contact improves signal-to-noise ratio, enabling precise recording of electrical signals and electrical stimulation of single cells.
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