Toward an embedded system for the in-vitro and in-situ cell proliferation characterization by impedance spectroscopy

Wireless Implantable systems are of primary interest for the in situ chronic monitoring or regulation of physiological parameters. Nevertheless, the implantation of such devices leads to immune system responses including an abnormal cell proliferation in its immediate surroundings. Both functioning and performances can be altered. So, it is necessary to monitor the evolution of the fibrotic tissues to prevent the dysfunctions. ECIS technique is appropriate for that. In this article, we propose, as a first step, an embedded system based on this technique for continuous bio-impedance measurements and designed for an arrangement in a culture chamber. It features a wide frequency range analysis with a view to determining an electrical marker of the cell type as a function of the frequency response. A validation of the system, for measurements on human fibroblasts, shows a very good match with the usual Cole-Cole model with an average error of only 1.5% on a 8-days experiment performed in real conditions.