A microelectrolytic device for electronically controlled nitric oxide microgradient generation

We present the first micro-electrolysis device for the electronic control of nitric oxide (NO) release using a high molecular weight polyethylene imide (HMW PEI) pH sensitive NO donor. The device consists of Ti/Pt electrodes patterned on a glass wafer under a poly-dimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membrane used to contain the aqueous donor solution. The device operates on the premise that the electrolysis of water generates protons at the anode of the electrochemical cell, lowering the local pH of the electrolyte, triggering the release of NO from the donor. Using sets of electrodes, various spatiotemporal gradients of NO dosage can be achieved for in vivo or in vitro studies.