Cell growth and attachment to AlGaN surfaces for biosensor applications

This investigation of the biocompatibility of AlGaN/GaN HEMT structure and HEK-293FT cells shows that material is suitable for future biological applications. In our experiment wells were filled with HEK-293-FT cell in Dulbecco´s Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM), and pieces of AlGaN/GaN wafers were placed in some wells while others were left as control wells for comparison of growth and mortality rates. These samples were prepared by cleaning sequentially with acetone, isopropanol, and deionised water. A total of 48 small wells of diameter 8mm were used, where 24 were with samples and 24 were control wells. The sizes of the AlGaN/GaN samples were 4×2 mm. Long-term experiment under standard conditions of 5% CO2 and 37C degree for set of different concentrations reflect process trough the time and concentration dependence. Semiconductors surface wasn´t modified in any way, so direct contact between AlGaN/GaN and cells was obtained. The increasing amount of the cells with time, confirming a healthy growth rate, and comparable mortality rates to the control wells. Direct assessment of attachment of the cells shows strong attachment to the AlGaN/GaN surface without any surface optimization. These results are an important foundation for further development of biosensors utilising AlGaN/GaN HEMT structures and HEK cells as the core elements.