Vala Sciences

To combine the throughput information content of optical-based screening methods with some of the stimulation control and temporal resolution afforded by electrophysiology, we have developed KIC, an electrical stimulation module that combines variable, repetitive electrical field stimulation with optical detection of intracellular calcium transients by calcium-sensitive dyes.

Our approach utilizes extracellular field electrodes to stimulate cells cultured in standard 96-well microtiter plates to achieve higher throughput, greater reliability and lower cost than alternative commercially available technologies (planar electrophysiology systems).

In order to record cardiomyocytes activity during their physiological response to stimuli we have implemented extracellular depolarization using a pair of metal electrodes immersed into extracellular solution.

KIC system utilizes a “parallel” electrode design, in which the distance between electrodes is set at 3 mm. This configuration ensures a uniform electrical field gradient distribution across the field of view of the well. Prior to stimulation, the electrodes are automatically immersed into the extracellular solution and positioned 100 µm above the bottom of the well. This guaranties that cells at the bottom of the well will not be damaged by the electrodies and that the electrodes do not interfere with the autofocus mechanism.

The IC200 system utilizes a fully automatic electrical stimulation during the screening process via the KIC module. Electrodes are automatically repositioned to each well during the screening experiment. The electrode module is designed specifically for use with 96-well plates. Furthermore, the KIC module implements a “floating” electrode design, which self-aligns within each well.

A.    Electrodes.
B.    Manipulator arm.
C.    Hinge.
D.    Manipulator.
E.    Tower.