On-chip chemical stimulation of neurons by local and controlled release of neurotransmitter

This paper describes the fabrication and in vitro testing of a device capable of chemically stimulating individual neurons. Electrophoretic actuation is used to locally induce the release of the neurotransmitter L-glutamate in a network of hippocampal neurons cultured on top of the device. Cell activation by the neurotransmitter is visualized using calcium imaging. Single-cell stimulation is demonstrated close to the release site after application of a voltage of 500 mV. Such a device could provide a useful tool in both basic and clinical neuroscience. In a broader context, this device can be used to locally release small amounts of chemical compounds in Lab-on-Chip and drug delivery applications.