Topographic Effects of Microstructured Biosensors

Abstract

Biosensors utilizing whole, living cells often rely on the adhesion of cells to the sensor surface. The effect of microstructures on human epithelial cells has been investigated. Microstructures were fabricated in a silicon substrate utilizing optical lithography and deep reactive ion etching. Human colon carcinoma cells (Caco-2) as used in pharmacological transport studies were grown on top of the microstructured substrates. A tendency of cells to adhere to edges was observed. Experimental data indicates, that cells are capable of bridging gaps. The influence of microstructure geometry on the proliferation rates of cells is discussed.