Electrochemical label-free degranulation monitoring for in-situ evaluation of cellular function

We fabricated a degranulation monitoring device, combining ion-sensitive field-effect transistor (ISFET) and microperfusion system. The electrical properties of ISFET were maintained even after immobilization of RBL-2H3 mast cells on the sensor. We successfully demonstrated in-situ monitoring of degranulation from stimulated RBL-2H3 cells by ionomycin. Potential change was induced by the release of acid-granule contents, which result in local pH decrease on the sensor under physiological conditions. This microdevice is expected to contribute as a platform technology for evaluating induced immune responses by chemical compounds.