Microscale Symmetrical Electroporator Array as a Versatile Molecular Delivery System

Sci Rep. 2017 Mar 20:7:44757. doi: 10.1038/srep44757.

Abstract

Successful developments of new therapeutic strategies often rely on the ability to deliver exogenous molecules into cytosol. We have developed a versatile on-chip vortex-assisted electroporation system, engineered to conduct sequential intracellular delivery of multiple molecules into various cell types at low voltage in a dosage-controlled manner. Micro-patterned planar electrodes permit substantial reduction in operational voltages and seamless integration with an existing microfluidic technology. Equipped with real-time process visualization functionality, the system enables on-chip optimization of electroporation parameters for cells with varying properties. Moreover, the system's dosage control and multi-molecular delivery capabilities facilitate intracellular delivery of various molecules as a single agent or in combination and its utility in biological research has been demonstrated by conducting RNA interference assays. We envision the system to be a powerful tool, aiding a wide range of applications, requiring single-cell level co-administrations of multiple molecules with controlled dosages.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Carbocyanines / metabolism
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Electroporation / instrumentation*
  • Equipment Design
  • Gene Transfer Techniques
  • Green Fluorescent Proteins / metabolism
  • HEK293 Cells
  • Humans
  • MicroRNAs / metabolism
  • Microtechnology / instrumentation*
  • Ovalbumin / metabolism
  • RNA, Small Interfering / metabolism

Substances

  • Alexa Fluor 647
  • Carbocyanines
  • MicroRNAs
  • RNA, Small Interfering
  • Green Fluorescent Proteins
  • Ovalbumin