Nanoencapsulation of Cells Within Multilayer Shells for Biomedical Applications

This paper reviews the recent research and development of the systems of nano-thin layers coated cells for biomedical applications. Polyelectrolyte based nano-thin polymer coatings, due to their individual layered structure and functionalization ability, are a promising part of the systems involving cells for biological processes regulation. The purpose of the layer-by-layer coating technique application is to minimize capsule void volume and separate cells from the host immunological system eliminating immunosuppressive therapy during transplantation. The materials for polyelectrolyte shells and their modifications, followed by the techniques of forming polymer nano-thin coatings are briefly introduced. The enhanced properties of cell nanocoatings are then discussed, involving usability for encapsulation of live cells, immunological barrier, and coatings detection among others. The systems utilizing layer-by layer coatings without cell participation are briefly mentioned. Finally, the perspectives for the future are discussed in terms of limitations and application in biomedicine.