A Stretchable Cell Culture Platform with Embedded Electrode Array

In this paper, we present a stretchable electrode array for studying cell behavior subjected to mechanical strain. The electrode array consists of four gold nail-head pins (250 mum tip diameter and 1.75 mm spacing) inserted into a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) platform (25.4times25.4 mm²). Fusible indium alloy (liquid at room temperature) filled microchannels are used to connect the electrodes to the outside, thus providing the required stretchability. The electrode platform is biocompatible and can withstand strains of up to 40%. We tested these electrodes by repeatedly (100 times) subjecting them to 35% strain and did not notice any failure. We also successfully cultured mice cardiomyocytes onto the platform and performed electrical pacing.