Interferometric Biosensor for High Sensitive Label-Free Recording of HiPS Cardiomyocytes Contraction <i>in Vitro</i>.

Boschi, Alessio; Iachetta, Giuseppina; Buonocore, Salvatore; Hubarevich, Aliaksandr; Hurtaud, Julien; Moreddu, Rosalia; Formoso, Maria Blanco; Tantussi, Francesco et al. · Nano Lett · 2024

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Heart disease remains a leading cause of global mortality, underscoring the need for advanced technologies to study cardiovascular diseases and develop effective treatments. We introduce an innovative interferometric biosensor for high-sensitivity and label-free recording of human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) cardiomyocyte contraction <i>in vitro</i>. Using an optical cavity, our device captures interference patterns caused by the contraction-induced displacement of a thin flexible membrane. First, we demonstrate the capability to quantify spontaneous contractions and discriminate between contraction and relaxation phases. We calculate a contraction-induced vertical membrane displacement close to 40 nm, which implies a traction stress of 34 ± 4 mN/mm<sup>2</sup>. Finally, we investigate the effects of a drug compound on contractility amplitude, revealing a significant reduction in contractile forces. The label-free and high-throughput nature of our biosensor may enhance drug screening processes and drug development for cardiac treatments. Our interferometric biosensor offers a novel approach for noninvasive and real-time assessment of cardiomyocyte contraction.

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