Development of cell/transistor interface for real-time and noninvasive monitoring of potassium ion release based on apoptosis using biologically-coupled field effect transistor

We report the real-time and noninvasive detection of K + release through cell membrane using a biologically-coupled field effect transistor (bio-FET). To achieve this purpose, the cell/transistor interface, which can selectively detect K + release through the ion-channel, was developed. The K + release through the ion-channel caused by apoptosis (programmed cell death) could be electrically detected using the bio-FET with crown ether monolayer. Thus we have demonstrated the ability to analyze selectively the ion channel behavior using the bio-FET modified with the functional monolayer.