A multi-functional platform for stimulating and recording electrical responses of SH-SY5Y cells†

Abstract

In recent years, multifunctional cell regulation on a single chip has become an imperative need for cell research. In this study, a novel multi-functional micro-platform integrating wireless electrical stimulation, mechanical stimulation and electrical response recording of cells was proposed. Controlling cell fate by photoexcited radio stimulation of cells on photosensitive films can precisely orchestrate biological activities. This is the first report of combining hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a-Si:H) photosensitive films and a 532 nm green laser for cell stimulation and electrical response recording. Remote wireless electrical stimulation of nerve cells through photoelectric effects based on photosensitive films evoked a change in membrane potential and promoted the neurite growth and neuronal differentiation. These effects were confirmed in a cell model of the human neuroblastoma cell line. The electrical response of cells demonstrated that the photocurrent generated by laser irradiation of the photosensitive film induced a redistribution of ions inside and outside the cell. Furthermore, a mechanical stimulus was applied to cells using a probe placed above them. The chip was used as a signal output to simultaneously obtain the electrical response of cells. The ability of photosensitive films to precisely excite cellular activity offers a novel prospect for wireless electrical stimulation. This work provides a promising strategy for the design of multi-functional biological devices based on a single chip.