HZDR

Dilution-free cell counting and cell monitoring

In order to determine the number of biological species such as bacteria in liquid, complex methods such as the microscopic counting of CFUs or the determination of the optical density by dilution have generally been required. With our developed process, a combination of silicon-based chip and impedance measuring device, the number of cells can be determined quickly, without dilution and optics-free.

Patented technology for widespread use in the life sciences

The PolCarr® impedance biochip stands for polarizable carrier. It is an innovative platform technology for small biomolecules, for example vitamins and hormones, amino acids and nucleotides as well as macromolecules such as proteins or DNA. These cells are brought into contact with the innovative carrier material. The resulting immobilization with micrometer to nanometer accuracy can be used in many areas of the life sciences.

In the manufacture of PolCarr® biochips, silicon is converted by ion implantation into a polarizable carrier material with near-surface electrostatic forces in a range of up to 200 nanometers (nm). The PolCarr® biochip was developed for use on transparent and flexible thin silicon films.

Patent: US 14 / 342,094

Functionality and areas of application

The biochip is connected to an impedance measuring device. Liquid test material (1-10 µl) is introduced into the ring electrode of the biochip. The change in impedance in the biochip is measured and modeled depending on the test liquid. Four modeled impedance parameters depend linearly on the number of cells that are in contact with the area within the ring electrode and enable sensitive determination of the cell concentration and sensitive in-situ control of cell growth.

Two types of PolCarr® biochips are available:

Biochips with enhanced electrostatic force of attraction for negatively charged cells (Biochip BS)
Biochips with enhanced electrostatic force of attraction for positively charged cells (Biochip PS)

Benefits of the Biochip

Large dynamic range (0.05 < OD600 < 16)
Easy impedance calibration of biochip
Fast and quasi-continuous measurement and analysis for in-situ control
High robustness of functionality against autoclaving, shock freezing, and incubation
Minimal use of liquid test material (1-10 μl)

What we offer

Order the biochip according to your requirements:

Biochip BS for negatively charged cells (simple metal contacts or bonded)
Biochip PS for positively charged cells (simple metal contacts or bonded)

Please use the order form to place an order.

Order Form PolCarr Biochip (348.69 KB)

Contact for Requests

Dipl. Physiker Stephan Krüger

Phone: +49 351 260 2180

polcarr@hzdri.de