A novel, completely transparent bio-MEMS
(bio-Micro Electro Mechanical System) device has been
devised and manufactured using finite element analysis
(FEA) and micro-fabrication techniques. The device has
been designed to be used for testing the mechanical properties
of single living cells, it is versatile and suitable for
coupling with other analysis techniques. Furthermore,
being completely transparent, it can be used with either
transmission or reflection microscopes. The transparent
bio-MEMS is based on a silicon dioxide–silicon nitride
structure and, since the main goal is to test living cells, it is
meant to work in a liquid environment and allow for cell
stretching. Sensors for cell deformation and for platform
displacement are also present and the required sensitivity
for single cell analyses is granted. The device will moreover
allow the recording of the stress–strain curve for
single living cells
