Question

Describe (using computer generated cross-sectional schematics, e.g., using MS PowerPoint) two alternative microfabrication processes that yield the cellular microstructures seen in Figure 2. The inset shows a large-scale view to give an idea of the pattern. Assume that the substrate is polystyrene for one of the processes and glass for the other alternative. Please clearly label your schematics and clearly explain each step of the process. Clearly state the materials that will be used in the processes. Albumin Collagen 100 um Hepatocytes Figure 2: Cellular micropattern.

Answer 1

Microfabrication elucidate the role of surface topography in leaves during fungal infection. The spores of te fungi need to find a pore on the surface of the leaf and form an infection structure called an appressorium that blocks the pore and enter the interior of the leaf.

Microfabricated devices are not generally freestanding devices but are usually formed over or in a thicker support substrate. For electronic applications, semiconducting substrates such as silicon wafers can be used. For optical devices or flat panel displays, transparent substrates such as glass or quartz are common. The substrate enables easy handling of the micro device through the many fabrication steps. Often many individual devices are made together on one substrate and then singulated into separated devices toward the end of fabrication.

The most common chemical immobilisation strategies used in BioMEMs are that the physisorption requires no special equipment. It can be used to combine wit most surfaces, particularly with glass, polystyrene petri dishes used in cell culture. It does not require surface treatment, but its advantageoous to treat the surface to enhance physisorption. E.g., in tissue culture polystyrene petri plates are treated with a plasma discharge tha is believed to introduce charged groups on the surface of polystyrene, whic thus becomes more adhesive to proteins and cells.