Cell-Membrane-Anchored Upconversion Nanoprobe for Near-Infrared Light Triggered Cell-Cell Interactions

Reversible Modulation of Cell-Cell Interactions Using Electrochemistry

Cell-cell interactions play an important role in many biological processes, and various methods have been developed for controlling the cell-cell interactions. However, the effective and rapid control of intercellular interactions remains challenging. Herein, we report a novel, rapid, and effective electrochemical strategy without destroying the basic life processes for the dynamic control of intercellular interactions via liposome fusion. In the proposed system, bioorthogonal chemical groups and hydroquinone (HQ)- and aminooxy (AO)-tethered ligands were modified on the surface of living cells on the basis of the liposome fusion, enabling dynamical intercellular assemblies. Upon application of the corresponding oxidative potential, the "off-state" HQ could be oxidized to the "on-state" quinone (Q), which subsequently reacts with AO-tethered ligands to form stable oxime linkages under physiological conditions. This reaction effectively shortens the distance between cells, promoting the formation of cell clusters. When the corresponding reverse reductive potential is applied, the oxime linkage is cleaved, resulting in the release of the cells. Furthermore, we employed HQ- and AO-tethered ligands to modify mitochondria, inducing mitochondrial aggregation. This noninvasive and label-free strategy allows for the dynamic reversible regulation of intercellular interactions, enhancing our understanding of intercellular communication networks, and has the potential for improving the antitumor therapy efficacy.

DNA nanostructures for exploring cell-cell communication

The process of coordinating between the same or multiple types of cells to jointly execute various instructions in a controlled and carefully regulated environment is a very appealing field. In order to provide clearer insight into the role of cell-cell interactions and the cellular communication of this process in their local communities, several interdisciplinary approaches have been employed to enhance the core understanding of this phenomenon. DNA nanostructures have emerged in recent years as one of the most promising tools in exploring cell-cell communication and interactions due to their programmability and addressability. Herein, this review is dedicated to offering a new perspective on using DNA nanostructures to explore the progress of cell-cell communication. After briefly outlining the anchoring strategy of DNA nanostructures on cell membranes and the subsequent dynamic regulation of DNA nanostructures, this paper highlights the significant contribution of DNA nanostructures in monitoring cell-cell communication and regulating its interactions. Finally, we provide a quick overview of the current challenges and potential directions for the application of DNA nanostructures in cellular communication and interactions.

Advancing cell surface modification in mammalian cells with synthetic molecules

Biological cells, being the fundamental entities of life, are widely acknowledged as intricate living machines. The manipulation of cell surfaces has emerged as a progressively significant domain of investigation and advancement in recent times. Particularly, the alteration of cell surfaces using meticulously crafted and thoroughly characterized synthesized molecules has proven to be an efficacious means of introducing innovative functionalities or manipulating cells. Within this realm, a diverse array of elegant and robust strategies have been recently devised, including the bioorthogonal strategy, which enables selective modification. This review offers a comprehensive survey of recent advancements in the modification of mammalian cell surfaces through the use of synthetic molecules. It explores a range of strategies, encompassing chemical covalent modifications, physical alterations, and bioorthogonal approaches. The review concludes by addressing the present challenges and potential future opportunities in this rapidly expanding field.