We have devised a unique method for sensitive and selective detection of Hg(2+) ions using DNA-modified gold microshells which can be individually manipulated using a micropipette and act as a micro SERS probe for analysis in small sample volumes.

The ability to make electrical measurements inside cells has led to many important advances in electrophysiology. The patch clamp technique, in which a glass micropipette filled with electrolyte is inserted into a cell, offers both high signal-to-noise ratio and temporal resolution. Ideally, the micropipette should be as small as possible to increase the spatial resolution and reduce the invasi...

PURPOSE To develop a reliable technique for measuring intraocular pressure (IOP) in the mouse. METHODS An electrophysiologic approach-the servo-null micropipette system (SNMS)-for measuring hydrostatic pressure was adapted for the mouse eye. Fine-tipped (5 microm in diameter) micropipettes were advanced across the cornea with a piezoelectric micromanipulator, and the IOP was continuously moni...

In July 2011 a new concept of a closed microfluidic system equipped with a fixed micropipette, optical tweezers and a UV-Vis spectrometer was presented [Biomed. Opt. Express 2, 2299 (2011)]. Figure 1 showed falsely oriented mirrors. To clarify the design of the setup, this erratum presents a correct schematic.

Direct-pressure microinjection with a micropipette is an essential tool for introducing a variety of impermeant substances into the cytoplasm or nucleus of plant and animal cells. Microinjection remains the most direct method to gain insight into the function and dynamics of intracellular components, to produce transgenic animals, or to overcome male infertility. This article describes the basi...

We have labelled single, primary auditory neurones in three reptile and one bird species. After functional characterization of the neurones, hexamminecobaltic chloride was iontophoretically injected through the recording micropipette. Precipitation of cobalt sulfide followed by silver intensification of the cochlear duct as a whole-mount preparation revealed stained neurones in over 90% of case...

We present a microfluidic technique for measuring the deformability of single cells using the pressure required to deform such cells through micrometre-scale tapered constrictions. Our technique is equivalent to whole-cell micropipette aspiration, but involves considerably simpler operation, less specialized equipment, and less technical skill. Single cells are infused into a microfluidic chann...