Abstract
Biosensor technology includes the detection of generated biological functionality. One whole-cell biosensor concept leaves specific receptor molecules in their natural environment to be optimized and adapted for efficient molecular recognition during evolution, and to use intact cells as biologically-active elements. In this project, a basic nanomaterials platform for whole cell sensors is produced by electrospinning composite nano- and microfiber networks. The resulting polymer-metal oxide (titania) “nano-mats” are fabricated on a conductive indium tin oxide (ITO) coated glass substrate for epithelial or other cell incubation and future incorporation into bioelectronics. Impedance spectroscopy is used to characterize cell interactions with the nano-mat to detect changes in cells with proliferation or when exposed to chemical stimuli, such as lactic acid. Cell response to media conditions can include growth, attachment and spreading, motility and migration, and cell death.