Electrophysiology using a high-density microfluidic array for high-throughput patch clamp measurements

We present whole cell current recordings using a microfabricated patch clamp array that allows recording from a large number of cells in close proximity. The array design enables simultaneous drug delivery to a number of patched cells and the acquisition of averaged cellular responses using minimal reagent quantities. While microfabricated devices have been used for whole cell patch recordings previously, we report the implementation of a closely spaced array fabricated by elastomer micromolding that allows high throughput measurements in a disposable package. Cell positioning is achieved using a novel lateral cell trapping scheme which allows for the optical monitoring of cell deformation inside the patch channel in conjunction with ion current recording. This device is also designed to eliminate parasitic capacitive coupling between the patch channel and the cell chamber and allows for easy media exchange during the experiment. Voltage clamp recordings of the voltage gated potassium channel Kv2.1 are presented along with channel block data in the presence of the channel blocker tetraethyl ammonium.