Development and application of a novel multi-channel in vitro electrical stimulator for cellular research.

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Background Exposure to electric fields affects cell membranes impacting their potential and altering cellular excitability, nerve transmission, or muscle contraction. Furthermore, electric stimulation influences cell communication, migration, proliferation, and differentiation, with potential therapeutic applications. In vitro platforms for electrical stimulation are valuable tools for studying these effects and advancing medical research. In this study, we developed and tested a novel multi-channel in vitro electrical stimulator designed for cellular applications. The device aims to facilitate research on the effects of electrical stimulation (ES) on cellular processes, providing a versatile platform that is easy to reproduce and implement in various laboratory settings. Methods The stimulator was designed to be simple, cost-effective, and versatile, fitting on standard 12-well plates for parallel experimentation. Extensive testing was conducted to evaluate the performance of the stimulator, including 3D finite element modelling to analyse electric field distribution. Moreover, the stimulator was evaluated in vitro using neuronal and stem cell cultures. Results Finite element modelling confirmed that the electric field was sufficiently homogeneous within the stimulation zone, though liquid volume affected field strength. A custom controller was developed to program stimulation

Evidence level

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

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