A triggered DNA hydrogel cover to envelop and release single cells.

Jin, Juan; Xing, Yongzheng; Xi, Yanli; Liu, Xueli; Zhou, Tao; Ma, Xinxin; Yang, Zhongqiang; Wang, Shutao et al. · Adv Mater · 2013

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

We develop an enzyme-triggered permeable DNA hydrogel cover to envelop and release single cells in microwells. The porous structure of the DNA hydrogel allows nutrients and waste to pass through, leading to a cell viability as high as 98%. The design provides a general method to culture, monitor, and manipulate single cells, and has potential applications in cell patterning and studying cell communication.

Medical subject headings