An organic transistor matrix for multipoint intracellular action potential recording

Area of Science:

• Bioelectronics
• Neuroscience
• Materials Science

Background:

• Electrode arrays are crucial for electrophysiological recordings, but extracellular methods lose signal amplitude and information.
• Existing intracellular recording techniques are often complex and incompatible with organic electronics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an organic electrochemical transistor (OECT) matrix for direct intracellular action potential recording.
• To overcome limitations of extracellular recordings and complex intracellular methods using organic electronics.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of an OECT matrix capable of simultaneous electroporation and recording.
• Utilizing driving voltage for electroporation, enabling simple intracellular access.
• Tuning OECT driving voltage and geometry to enhance signal amplitude.

Main Results:

• Successfully recorded intracellular action potentials with higher amplitude than extracellular field potentials.
• Demonstrated miniaturization and multiplexed recording with a 4 × 4 OECT matrix (5 × 5-μm² OECTs).
• Achieved these capabilities using a mild fabrication process and simple circuitry.

Conclusions:

• The OECT matrix provides a simple, effective method for intracellular action potential recording.
• This technology enhances signal fidelity and offers scalability for advanced neurophysiological studies.
• It integrates seamlessly with functional organic electronics, broadening application potential.