Automated 24 well neuro-screening system with life support

Abstract

Pharmacological research requires devices capable of performing parallel analyses to deliver a high quantity of comparable data for statistical evaluation. To understand the interactions of living neurons in their natural environment it is important to look at the functional mechanisms of cells. Stable culturing of neuronal networks over long periods of time requires strict control over biochemical parameters of the medium. Therefore the quantitative analysis of microenvironmental conditions and cell metabolic rates is essential in interpreting the changing patterns of electrophysiological activity. The presented neuro screening system is capable of measuring and reading out results of 24 neurochips simultaneously. With integrated biosensors for pH, pO2 and multi electrode arrays (MEAs) on each sensor chip, changes in spontaneous spike production and oxygen consumption can be measured at the site of the network monolayer to provide rapid indications of metabolic disturbances. As long-term monitoring of living cells demands a constant microenvironment in the wells, the screening system includes a pipetting robot able to deliver and remove culture medium or drug solutions to and from the wells. To achieve stable climatic conditions for the cell culture, the measuring unit and liquid handling robot are located in a climate chamber. The automated measuring system can also be combined with optical detection methods by integration of a microscope - allowing electrochemical and optical analysis methods at the same time. © 2009 Springer-Verlag.