Membrane perforation and recovery dynamics in microbubble-mediated sonoporation
Yaxin Hu1, Jennifer M F Wan, Alfred C H Yu
1Medical Engineering Program, University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong.
Ultrasound in Medicine & Biology
|September 26, 2013
Summary
This study reveals real-time membrane dynamics during sonoporation, detailing how cell membranes perforate and reseal. Successful resealing depends on pore size and extracellular calcium, offering insights into ultrasound-induced cell membrane repair.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Biophysics
- Acoustic Medicine
Background:
- Sonoporation involves ultrasound-induced cell membrane perforation and resealing.
- Understanding membrane dynamics during sonoporation is crucial for its therapeutic applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide direct, real-time evidence of membrane-level dynamics during and after sonoporation.
- To elucidate the mechanisms and conditions governing cell membrane perforation and resealing.
Main Methods:
- Anchored fetal fibroblasts were imaged using real-time confocal microscopy.
- Microbubbles were used for controlled, single-cell sonoporation with specific ultrasound parameters.
- Membrane topography and pore dynamics were observed in situ.
Main Results:
- Membrane perforation was synchronized with ultrasound pulsing.
- Successfully resealed pores had a peak area <30 μm², with closure within 1 min.
- Pore rim thickening was observed during successful resealing.
- Resealing failed for pores >100 μm² or without extracellular calcium.
Conclusions:
- Sonoporation involves complex spatiotemporal membrane dynamics.
- Successful membrane resealing is dependent on pore size and extracellular calcium availability.
- These findings enhance our understanding of ultrasound-mediated cell membrane manipulation.
