Friday 6 June 2014

Cells in silica

Individual mammalian cells have been encapsulated in silica coatings using a quick and relatively mild process carried out in cell culture medium.  The coatings contain thiol groups from molecules left over from the synthesis process offering opportunities for post-functionalisation.  Cell proliferation was suppressed by the silica coat which also protected the cells from the effects of trypsin and highly toxic poly (allylamine hydrochloride).  Researchers suggest that modifications of the coating could protect cells against a variety of other stressors such as heat and UV.   The approach might ultimately be useful for applications where cells require protection and preservation such as cell-based sensors as well as in single-cell studies. 

Cytoprotective Silica Coating of Individual Mammalian Cells Through Bioinspired Silicification, J. Lee et al, Angewandte Chemie International Edition; DOI: 10.1002/anie.201402280

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