Electronic communication of cells with a surface mediated by boronic acid saccharide interactions.

Alex Stephenson-Brown,Muhammad H Mansor,Sue Yong,Frankie J Rawson,Zarrar Hussein,Paula M Mendes,John S Fossey,Nga-Chi Yip

doi:10.1039/c5cc04311e

Abstract

The fabrication of a molecularly tailored surface functionalised with a saccharide binding motif, a phenyl boronic acid derivative is reported. The functionalised surface facilitated the transfer of electrons, via unique electronic interactions mediated by the presence of the boronic acid, from a macrophage cell line. This is the first example of eukaryotic cellular-electrical communication mediated by the binding of cells via their cell-surface saccharide units.

Highlights

The development and innovation of technology capable of forming a biocompatible interface between cells and materials in their environment is of great significance for an array of applications, from utilization as a research tool to inform biological investigations through to cell culture to tissue engineering.[1]
The functionalised surface facilitated the transfer of electrons, via unique electronic interactions mediated by the presence of the boronic acid, from a macrophage cell line
It should be noted that all eukaryotic cells have transplasma membrane electron transport systems within the plasma membrane.[15]

Summary

Introduction

The development and innovation of technology capable of forming a biocompatible interface between cells and materials in their environment is of great significance for an array of applications, from utilization as a research tool to inform biological investigations through to cell culture to tissue engineering.[1]. The functionalised surface facilitated the transfer of electrons, via unique electronic interactions mediated by the presence of the boronic acid, from a macrophage cell line.

Results

Conclusion