On-line control of cellular adhesion with impedance measurements using interdigitated electrode structures

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Cell Biology
• Biosensing

Background:

• Cell viability and cell number are critical parameters in cell culture.
• These parameters significantly influence cell growth, product formation, and toxicity.
• Assessing these factors is essential for the overall success of cell culture experiments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the use of interdigitated electrode structures (IDES) for monitoring adherent cell behavior.
• To investigate the relationship between electrical impedance and cellular changes (number, growth, morphology).
• To assess the feasibility of impedance-based cell monitoring over a four-day culture period.

Main Methods:

• Adherent cells from five different cell lines were cultured on interdigitated electrodes.
• Electrical impedance of the cell-electrode system was measured over four days.
• Cellular behavior was monitored from inoculation to cell death.

Main Results:

• Interdigitated electrode structures (IDES) provided insights into the adhesive behavior of cells.
• Impedance signals were influenced by cell number, growth, and morphological changes due to cell membrane insulation.
• Significant fluctuations in impedance were observed even with dense cell monolayers.

Conclusions:

• Electrical impedance monitoring using IDES can provide valuable information on adherent cell cultures.
• While informative, impedance alone may not fully capture cellular system dynamics.
• Integrating other parameters like acidification and respiration is recommended for a comprehensive cellular analysis.