Laser-based patterning for transfected cell microarrays

The spatial control over biomolecule- and cell-surface interactions is of great interest to a broad range of biomedical applications, including sensors, implantable devices and cell microarrays. Microarrays in particular require precise spatial control and the formation of patterns with microscale features. Here, we have developed an approach specifically designed for transfected cell microarray (TCM) applications that allows microscale spatial control over the location of both DNA and cells on highly doped p-type silicon substrates. This was achieved by surface modification, involving plasma polymerization of allylamine, grafting of poly(ethylene glycol) and subsequent excimer laser ablation. DNA could be delivered in a spatially defined manner using ink-jet printing. In addition, electroporation was investigated as an approach to transfect attached cells with adsorbed DNA and good transfection efficiencies of approximately 20% were observed. The ability of the microstructured surfaces to spatially direct both DNA adsorption and cell attachment was demonstrated in a functional TCM, making this system an exciting platform for chip-based functional genomics.