Multilayer Cellular Signal Probe With Nested Electrodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a compact technology to sense cellular nerve signaling effectively.
Innovation Solution
A probe apparatus with a base layer, multiple electrodes, middle layers, a cover layer, and a fluid-flow channel is designed to sense cellular signals. The apparatus includes extracellular and intracellular electrodes, middle layers to cover the electrodes, a cover layer with specific holes for terminal exposure, and a flow channel for fluid pressure application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a compact probe structure is designed for cellular sensing, then the device size is reduced, but the integration of multiple electrodes and fluid channels becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by placing the intracellular electrode inside the extracellular electrode structure. The intracellular electrode is positioned within the lumen of the extracellular electrode, allowing both electrodes to occupy the same spatial region. This nested configuration reduces the overall probe volume while maintaining the functionality of both extracellular and intracellular sensing capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional planar electrode arrangement to a three-dimensional stacked configuration with multiple layers (base layer, first middle layer, second middle layer, cover layer). The electrodes and fluid channels are arranged in vertical stacking rather than lateral placement, enabling compact integration of multiple components in the Z-dimension while reducing the X-Y footprint of the probe.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electrodes are integrated for simultaneous extracellular and intracellular sensing, then the measurement capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe design integrates multiple sensing functions into a single device structure. The extracellular electrode records extracellular action potentials, while the intracellular electrode penetrates cells to record intracellular action potentials and perform patch-clamp measurements. Both electrodes share common structural support layers and sealing mechanisms, allowing the device to perform multiple sensing functions simultaneously without requiring separate independent systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the extracellular electrode and intracellular electrode into a single integrated probe assembly. Both electrodes share common structural elements including the base layer, middle layers with sealing features, and fluid delivery channels. The electrodes are positioned in fixed spatial relationships to each other, allowing simultaneous operation for recording both extracellular and intracellular signals from the same cell population.
3Measurement precision
If fluid channels are added for cell positioning, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a fluid delivery system as an intermediary mechanism to control cell positioning. Microfluidic channels deliver buffering solution and apply hydrodynamic forces to manipulate cell positions near the electrode recording sites. This fluid intermediary enables precise positioning of target cells without requiring direct mechanical manipulation, thereby improving measurement precision while adding only moderate structural complexity through integrated microfluidic pathways.
Data Source
AI summary
A probe apparatus for sensing a cellular signal includes a base layer, an extracellular electrode disposed on the base layer, a first middle layer that is disposed on the base layer and configured to cover the extracellular electrode, an intracellular electrode that is disposed on the first middle layer, a second middle layer that is disposed on the first middle layer and configured to cover the intracellular electrode, a cover layer disposed on the second middle layer, and a fluid-flow channel provided between the second middle layer and the cover layer.