Dynamic cell patterning technology based on photocleavable molecules

Dynamic control of cell-substrate interactions is useful for exploring signaling processes involved in cell adhesion and migration as well as patterning heterotypic cells to mimic living tissues. We have developed photoactivatable substrates whose surface was modified with photoreleasable cell-repellent blocking agents. The surfaces are initially non-cell adhesive because of the presence of the blocking agents, but become cell adhesive upon near-UV irradiation of the substrates via the photo-induced desorption of the blocking agents. Here, I overview the developmental process of our photoactivatable substrates and demonstrate their potential uses for bioanalysis.