An equivalent circuit model for localized electroporation on porous substrates

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Cell Biology
• Bioengineering

Background:

• In vitro intracellular delivery faces challenges in achieving high cell numbers and accuracy.
• Porous substrate electroporation (PSEP) is a promising technique but lacks a deep understanding of its underlying electrical properties.
• Impedance variations in PSEP systems hinder widespread adoption and optimization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an equivalent circuit model for porous substrate electroporation (PSEP).
• To elucidate the impedance characteristics of PSEP components and their influence on experimental parameters.
• To understand voltage distribution within the PSEP system for improved waveform design.

Main Methods:

• Utilized impedance measurements to characterize PSEP system components.
• Developed an equivalent circuit model to simulate system behavior.
• Validated the model through intracellular protein delivery experiments using PSEP.

Main Results:

• The equivalent circuit model accurately mimics the electrical behavior of the PSEP system.
• The model reveals voltage distribution across the electrode-electrolyte interface, substrate channels, cell monolayer, and transmembrane potential.
• Simulations identified potential waveform improvements for future PSEP studies.

Conclusions:

• The developed equivalent circuit model provides critical insights into PSEP system impedances.
• Understanding these impedances is crucial for optimizing PSEP for accurate and efficient in vitro intracellular delivery.
• This work validates the model and paves the way for enhanced PSEP applications.