Abstract
The oscillating Belousov-Zhabotinsky reaction provides an experimental system with which to study networks of coupled oscillators. We developed a method that allows for creating highly configurable coupled networks of Belousov-Zhabotinsky micro-oscillators. With novel microfluidic techniques we pattern custom planar arrays of nanoliter-scale wells into thin sheets of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). Once loaded into these compartments and confined by glass the oscillatory Belousov-Zhabotinsky reaction commences. The discrete oscillators are either inhibitorily coupled via diffusion through PDMS or excitatorily coupled via diffusion through thin channels connecting the wells. By varying geometrical parameters of the device’s design, we are able to alter the strength and quality of the chemical coupling between these oscillatory cells and create network of heterogeneously interacting oscillators. Exploiting our ability to design network topology and the nature of the inter-cell coupling we construct chemical circuits that achieve the complexity of the autonomous nervous system of a variety of organisms.