A micro system using dielectrophoresis and electrical impedance spectroscopy for cell manipulation and analysis

Single cell manipulation and analysis using dielectrophoresis (DEP) and micro electrical impedance spectroscopy (/spl mu/-EIS) has been demonstrated on bovine chromaffin cells and red blood cells. Cells were manipulated and analyzed on a micro scale electrophysiological analysis system fabricated using micromachining (e.g. MEMS) technologies. Cells were injected into a microreservoir and collected for /spl mu/-EIS analysis using vacuum and DEP. Impedance measurements were taken over a frequency range of 40 Hz to 3.0 MHz. The data obtained for the cells was compared to data obtained for air, and phosphate buffered solution. Data for chromaffin cells was analyzed further, assessing cell size and calcium ion channel activity in relation to impedance spectroscopy.