EMEMI: An interference-free mini-incubator with integrated electric and magnetic field exposure for real-time microscopic imaging of field effects

Uninterrupted microscopic observation and real-time imaging of cell behavior during exposure to the stimulus, for example, electric and/or magnetic fields, especially for periods of several days, has been a challenge in experimental bioelectromagnetics due to a lack of proper gas/temperature conditions outside the incubator. Conventional mini-incubators might suffer from stray fields produced by heating elements. We report an in vitro electric and magnetic fields (EMF) exposure system embedded inside a novel under-the-microscope mini-CO2-incubator with a unique design to avoid electromagnetic interference from the heating and circulation functions while ensuring the requisite temperature. A unique, reconfigurable array of electrodes and/or coils excited by calculated current distributions among array elements is designed to provide excellent field uniformity and controllable linear or circular polarization (even at very low frequencies) of the EMF within the cell culture. Using standard biochemical assays, long-term cell viability has been verified and compared with a conventional incubator. Cell orientation/migration in three-dimensional culture made of collagen-hydrogels has been successfully observed in vitro, in long-term, and in real-time under the influence of DC electric fields with the device. Uninterrupted Microscopic Observation: The study addresses the challenge of continuous real-time imaging of cell behavior during exposure to stimuli like electric and magnetic fields, especially for extended periods.Under-the-Microscope Mini-Incubator: A novel incubator design is introduced, embedded with an electric and magnetic fields (EMF) exposure system, enabling observations of cell responses while avoiding electromagnetic interference.Field Uniformity and Polarization Control: A unique array of electrodes and/or coils with calculated current distributions is designed to ensure excellent field uniformity and controllable polarization of the EMF.Viability and Cell Behavior Analysis: The study verifies mini-incubator with cell viability using standard assays and successfully observes cell orientation and migration in three-dimensional collagen-hydrogel cultures under the influence of DC electric fields.