Epithelial cell patterns on a PDMS polymer surface using a micro plasma structure.

We developed a simple and reproducible epithelial cell-patterning tool on a PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) polymer surface using a micro plasma structure that did not require chemical or biological treatment. The concept behind this novel approach was based on the fact that cells should easily adhere to the plasma-treated PDMS surface and not the inherent PDMS surface. The micro plasma structure consisted of copper and SU-8 photoresist on a glass substrate. A predetermined space (micro plasma chamber) was formed between the copper electrode layer on the upper part and the PDMS plate surrounded by the SU-8 photoresist structure. The single cell pattern was achieved by introducing a micro-plasma structure of 30 μm in width. Using this approach, a closed cell pattern was successfully developed using a micro chamber structure that was 200 μm in diameter with a microchannel that was 10 μm in width.