Encapsulation of cells in gold nanoparticle functionalized hybrid Layer-by-Layer (LbL) hybrid shells : remote effect of laser light

Abstract Encapsulation of cells has been an active area of research. Among various methods for encapsulation, Layer-by-Layer (LbL) offers extensive flexibility in the design of surfaces and their interfacial nanoarchitectonics. A diverse range of functionalities have been recently demonstrated for cell encapsulation including protection and improved circulation. Here, we present a new strategy of cell encapsulation in a hybrid coating containing LbL assembly functionalized with gold nanoparticle aggregates. The effect of this hybrid coating on cell viability was assessed. Subsequently, upon laser illumination the encapsulated cells undergo immediate necrosis caused by the localized heat generated by the laser beam on gold nanoparticle aggregates. Similarly to affecting polyelectrolyte multilayer capsules, one envisions controlling surface properties of cells remotely by a laser beam. Further applications of the proposed approach are expected to be in biomedicine.