Biomimetic Nanostructured 3D Microelectrode Systems for Spatially Resolved Electrophysiological Cell Recordings

Abstract:
For spatial resolution of the electrophysiological processes in complex cell structures or organoids, the sensing device itself must also exhibit a 3D architecture. Therefore, and in contrast to conventional planar microelectrode arrays, a novel system utilizing a 3D spiral-like design is being developed. The insulation layer is biomimetically nanostructured to improve cell growth, differentiation and proliferation. The electrodes are then characterized by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, showing a good reproducibility of the fabrication process. Additionally, an electrical equivalent circuit is fitted to the measurement data to determine electrode-characterizing parameters, such as the electrochemical doublelayer capacitance. The prediction of the model shows excellent agreement with the observed data. Furthermore, the functionality of this system is demonstrated via electrophysiological cell measurements of enteric neurons.