Love mode surface acoustic wave sensors for cellular toxicity sensing

Shear mode acoustic wave sensor combined with living cells has been demonstrated to be a powerful tool to evaluate diverse cellular functions, including cell attachment and spreading, cytoskeleton remodeling, cell growth, and morphological changes. Among various shear mode acoustic wave devices, one type of high-frequency surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensor, wave-guided shear-horizontal surface acoustic wave (or Love mode) device, has received a lot of attentions as biosensors due to its high mass sensitivity and sensing capability in liquid environments. However, only a few studies have been performed to investigate the use of Love mode devices to probe cell behaviors. In this study, we developed an analytical model of Love mode biosensors. The model was validated with experimental results of frequency shift and loss change in devices with polymer coatings and applied to relate electrical signals change to cell behaviors and properties (i.e.: cell adhesion and viscoelastic properties). According to simulation results, sensor devices were designed and fabricated. Finally, the devices were applied for cellular toxicity sensing. The results showed that our Love mode devices were capable of monitoring the dynamic procedure of cell attachment and spreading, as well as detachment induced by toxicants.