Bio-inspired encapsulation and functionalization of living cells with artificial shells

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Cell Biology
• Bioengineering

Background:

• Most single cells lack protective shells, unlike diatoms and radiolarians.
• Biomimetic encapsulation of living cells with artificial shells is crucial for cell-based technologies and biological studies.
• Research in fabrication, functionalization, and applications of encapsulated cells has rapidly advanced.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the latest fabrication strategies for encapsulating living cells with functional artificial shells.
• To discuss various types of artificial shells, including hydrogel matrix, sol-gel, polymeric, and induced mineral shells.
• To compare the advantages and disadvantages of different artificial shell types.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent literature on artificial shell fabrication techniques for cell encapsulation.
• Categorization and analysis of shell types: hydrogel matrix, sol-gel, polymeric, and induced mineral.
• Comparison of shell properties, fabrication methods, and their suitability for different applications.

Main Results:

• Detailed discussion of diverse artificial shell fabrication strategies.
• Comparison of advantages and disadvantages of hydrogel, sol-gel, polymeric, and mineral shells.
• Overview of biomedical applications including cell implant protection, separation, biosensors, cell therapy, and tissue engineering.

Conclusions:

• Artificial cell encapsulation offers significant potential for advancing cell-based technologies.
• The choice of shell material and fabrication method is critical for successful application.
• Future research directions include further functionalization and exploration of novel applications.