By turning on different portions of the heating array while the chip is exposed to different solutions, the researchers found that they could selectively attach different proteins in pre-determined patterns. And, since certain cells attach to certain proteins, researchers could use the method to layer proteins and cells, custom-designing chips that feature different cells grouped in whatever patterns the scientists need.
At the research level, Böhringer said, this could help make efficient use of time and funding.
"You could create a chip that runs a number of different experiments at the same time," he said.
There are also powerful applications outside the research lab, he added. The technique could be used to fashion biosensors or diagnostic devices.
"We could have arrays of proteins or cells with specific functions they may be sensitive to a pathogen, for example," he said. "You could watch the array as it's exposed to some unknown sample and see how it reacts."
Medical applications are another promising area. Since the arrays can be positioned however one wants, they could be used to grow tissue in specific shapes.
"We can basically create shapes of cell cultures," Böhringer said. "Then if you switch off the heater, the attachment ends and the whole cell culture lifts off. So it may be a way of making, for example, a replacement skin graft. You grow it on the surface, prompt it to lift off, and you could transplant it. That could directly follow from this."
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Contact: Rob Harrill
rharrill@u.washington.edu
206-543-2580
University of Washington
7-Jan-2004