Cellular shellization: surface engineering gives cells an exterior.
Unlike eggs and diatoms, most single cells in nature do not have structured shells to provide extensive protection. It is a challenge to artificially confer shell structures on living cells to improve their inherent properties and functions. We discuss four different types of cellular shellizations: man-made hydrogels, sol-gels, polyelectrolytes, and mineral shells. We also explore potential applications, such as cell storage, protection, delivery, and therapy. We suggest that shellization could provide another means to regulate and functionalize cells. Specifically, the integration of living cells and non-living functional shells may be developed as a novel strategy to create "super" or intelligent cells. Unlike biological approaches, this material-based bio-interface regulation is inexpensive, effective, and convenient, opening up a novel avenue for cell-based technologies and practices.
Wang
Ben
B
Center for Biomaterials and Biopathways and Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310027, China.
Liu
Peng
P
Tang
Ruikang
R
D000818:Animals; D002477:Cells; D006801:Humans; D020100:Hydrogels; D011108:Polymers; D023822:Tissue Engineering / Q000379:methods*
D020100:Hydrogels; D011108:Polymers