Current application of micro/nano-interfaces to stimulate and analyze cellular responses

Ann Biomed Eng. 2010 Jun;38(6):2056-67. doi: 10.1007/s10439-010-9984-7. Epub 2010 Mar 6.

Abstract

Microfabrication technologies have a high potential for novel approaches to access living cells at a cellular or even at a molecular level. In the course of reviewing and discussing the current application of microinterface systems including nanointerfaces to stimulate and analyze cellular responses with subcellular resolution, this article focuses on interfaces based on microfluidics, nanoparticles, and scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM). Micro/nanointerface systems provide a novel, attractive means for cell study because they are capable of regulating and monitoring cellular signals simultaneously and repeatedly, leading us to an enhanced understanding and interpretation of cellular responses. Therefore, it is hoped that the integrated micro/nanointerfaces presented in this review will contribute to future developments of cell biology and facilitate advanced biomedical applications.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Culture Techniques / instrumentation*
  • Cell Culture Techniques / trends
  • Cell Separation / instrumentation*
  • Cell Separation / trends
  • Equipment Design
  • Flow Cytometry / instrumentation*
  • Flow Cytometry / trends
  • Humans
  • Mechanotransduction, Cellular / physiology*
  • Microfluidic Analytical Techniques / instrumentation*
  • Microfluidic Analytical Techniques / trends
  • Miniaturization
  • Nanotechnology / instrumentation*
  • Nanotechnology / trends