Evaluation of Cell Viability in Living Tissue Equivalents Exposed to Pulsed Current with a DC Offset

An electrophysical apparatus for combined electroporation and iontophoresis treatment of biological membranes is described. Estimates of cell viability in living tissue equivalents exposed to pulsed current with a dc offset are provided. The values of the electrophysical pulse characteristics compatible with the viability of cells in the living tissue equivalents have been determined. The obtained data suggest that these electrophysical parameters could be used for transportation of pharmaceutical compounds through an equivalent of the round window membrane of the cochlea. A technique of drug administration across biological barriers can be developed based on pulsed electric field equipment to enable drug delivery into the inner ear.