Single point single-cell nanoparticle mediated pulsed laser optoporation

Area of Science:

• Biophysics
• Cell Biology
• Optical Engineering

Background:

• Pulsed laser optoporation offers a precise method for cellular manipulation.
• Plasmonic nanoparticles (NPs) can enhance laser-induced cell membrane perforation.
• Accurate targeting and real-time monitoring are crucial for understanding optoporation dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present an optical platform for studying nanoparticle-assisted pulsed laser optoporation of individual living cells.
• To utilize plasmonic NPs as both membrane markers and perforation enhancers.
• To enable spatially controlled, single-point optoporation of single cells.

Main Methods:

• Development of an optical platform integrating reflected light microscopy (RLM) for NP imaging.
• Utilizing RLM for high-contrast imaging and automatic laser targeting of individual NPs on cell membranes.
• Integration with fluorescence microscopy and a cellular incubator for real-time kinetic studies.

Main Results:

• Demonstration of accurate and automatic laser targeting of single NPs for controlled optoporation.
• Successful spatially controlled, single-point laser perforation of individual living cells.
• Compatibility with live-cell imaging and incubation for dynamic studies.

Conclusions:

• The presented optical platform enables precise study of nanoparticle-assisted pulsed laser optoporation dynamics.
• This technology facilitates research into optomechanical interactions and real-time perforation kinetics.
• The platform supports the development of pulsed laser optoporation and transfection for single cells and bulk assays.