A diamond-on-silicon patch-clamp-system

Here, we present a planar multi-patch-clamp-system based on a nano-crystalline diamond patch-membrane used for the investigation of ion channels in cell-membranes. In such a system the cell-membrane is electrically stimulated through a potential difference in the electrolyte across the patch-membrane. Usually, the patch-membrane material is a highly insulating dielectric. The use of diamond allows to add highly localized probes in close proximity to the clamping area for a localized analysis of the stimulation mechanism. The technological concept, realization and first electrical characteristics of the principle structure are discussed.