Team:Lambert GA/Hardware

CALM ELECTROPEN
BACKGROUND DATA & METHODS RESULTS DISCUSSION COLOR Q SUPPLEMENTARY REFERENCES
COLOR Q CHROME Q REFERENCES
PRINCIPLES & DESIGN MODEL & THEORY PRODUCT DESIGN REFERENCES
INTEGRATED HUMAN PRACTICES EDUCATION & ENGAGEMENT COLLABORATIONS
BASIC PARTS COMPOSITE PARTS
DESCRIPTION BACKGROUND DESIGN EXPERIMENTS LAB NOTEBOOK INTERLAB RESULTS DEMONSTRATE THE VISION
TEAM MEMBERS ATTRIBUTIONS

H A R D W A R E



































The ElectroPen

One of the most important processes within synthetic biology involves the introduction of small molecules through cell membranes, with the most prevalent being bacterial transformations. This process is routinely conducted using chemical means where washing of cells with numerous chemical mixtures allows for the creation of pores in the membrane. Another method commonly utilized is known as electroporation, where high-voltage pulses are delivered to cells resulting in temporary pore formation allowing the small molecules to enter. Electroporation is often favored due to its increased transformation efficiencies, faster protocols, and less materials necessary in preparing the competent cells, however, a major inhibitory factor persists due to the need for electroporators. These devices cost thousands of dollars, require electricity, and are difficult to transport, preventing their incorporation in many labs across the world, in high schools, and in field biology. With inspiration from frugal science inventions such as the Foldscope and PaperFuge, we set out to develop an electroporator that address each of these obstacles. We present the ElectroPen™, a novel 20-cent electroporator built using the underlying principles of a common household lighter that weighs only 13g, can be fabricated using everyday materials, and requires no access to electricity.