High-k Dielectric Passivation: Novel Considerations Enabling Cell Specific Lysis Induced by Electric Fields

• DOI: 10.1021/acsami.6b06927
• Publication Date: 2016-07-28T15:11:06Z
• Authors: Klemens J. Wasser...; Sven Barth; Franz Keplinger; Christa Noehammer; Johannes R. Peham
• Keywords: Passivation; Decoupling (probability)

A better understanding of the electrodynamic behavior cells interacting with electric fields would allow for novel scientific insights and lead to next generation cell manipulation, diagnostics, treatment. Here, we introduce a promising electrode design by using metal oxide high-k dielectric passivation. The thermally generated passivation layer enables efficient field coupling fluid sample comprising while simultaneously decoupling ohmically from electrolyte, allowing control adjustability effects due reduced electrochemical reactions at surface. This approach demonstrates cell-size specific lysis in microfluidic flow-through resulting 99.8% blood 6 s exposure without affecting viability Gram-positive Gram-negative bacterial spike-ins. advantages this new can support next-generation investigations electrodynamics biological systems their exploitation manipulation multiple medicine, life science, industry.