Forming an electrical interface with living cells, including muscle cells and neurons, is crucial for studying fundamental electrophysiological processes. These cells use ion-transport channels to create a potential difference across their membrane (action potentials) that can be used to convey a nerve signal or trigger muscle contraction. In order to measure these potentials with high spatial precision and minimal cell disturbance, the research team of CM. Lieber at Harvard University recently developed a nano-wire field-effect transistor (FET) that employs a branched silica nanotube as a nanoscale syringe.
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