Fast, compact and label-free electrical detection of live and dead single cells

Abstract

Using a novel broadband microchamber, electrical detection of live and dead single cells was demonstrated. Tests on Jurkat cells showed that live cells had lower resistance but higher capacitance than that of dead cells. The test results were compared with the limited literature on broadband electrical detection of single cells and the discrepancies, both qualitative and quantitative, were discussed. These results indicate that, while broadband electrical detection at the single-cell level is becoming feasible, many challenges remain in impedance match, calibration, sensitivity, cell manipulation, solution effect and modeling.