A Chip-Based Cell Membrane Model for Characterising Optical Voltage Sensors

This thesis discusses the fabrication of an optically accessible, on-chip, calibration platform for controlled exposure of voltage sensitive particles to an electric field of known strength. Validation and verification studies on the prototype show the ability of the chip to mimic action potential parameters. Standardizing this test platform in the field will enhance the accuracy of the sensitivity determination and allows the effect of individual environmental factors on voltage sensitivity to be measured. The developed platform can be utilized in future studies to evaluate the impact of design, composition and surface coating of new voltage sensing probes.