Biodevices Using Microwells Sealed with Artificial Lipid Bilayers: Improvement of Sealing Performance by Protein Coating

Abstract

The use of microwells sealed with lipid bilayers is promising for biodevices that utilize protein functions. We have fabricated microwell structures on a Si substrate sealed with lipid bilayers. We have investigated Ca²⁺ ion transport through α-hemolysin channels with fluorescent microscopy. However, problems remain as regards achieving the detection of smaller signal such as receptor channels. Ion leakage through the interfacial water layer between the lipid bilayer and the substrate is one of the major hurdles to be overcome. In this paper, we present the mechanism of the ion leakage behavior and then an improved microwell structure that uses bovine serum albumin coating on the device surface to prevent ion leakage from/into the microwells.