engleski

Double layer-charge displacement by adhesion and spreading of living cells

The potentiostatic control of surface charge density and interfacial tension of an electrode aqueous interface offers a possibility for direct studies of non-specific interactions in cell adhesion and development of adhesion based sensors for environmental particles. Unicellular marine alga, Dunaliella tertiolecta (Chlorophyceae) of micrometer size and flexible cell membrane was used as a model and 0.1 M NaCl, pH=8, as supporting electrolyte. The dropping mercury electrode acts as an in situ adhesion sensor with adhesion and spreading rates being enhanced by the hydrodynamic regime of electrode's growing fluid interface. The adhesion of single cells causes a displacement of counter-ions from the electrical double layer. The instant flow of compensating current reflects the dynamics of adhesive contact formation and spreading of a cell. The amperometric technique allows precise recording of adhesion signals of individual cells and measurement of cell contact area, the distance of the closest approach and calculation of adhesion forces.

charge displacement; adhesion sensor; spreading; living cells; Dunaliella tertiolecta

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