Electroporation, Electrophysiology, and Cell Electrokinetics

Electroporation is a technique, which employs pulsed electric fields to create nanopores across the lipid bilayer. Reversible pore formation has been recognized as a powerful means to introduce macromolecules such as DNA into cells, while maintaining cell viability. Recently, irreversible electroporation, which results in cell death, has been used for the ablation of undesirable tissue. Results indicate that due to its non-thermal nature, IRE preserves important tissue components, such as the extracellular matrix, major blood vessels, and nerves. The talks within this session will deal single cell analysis via micro-electroporation technology, cellular polarization, and in vivo applications of electroporation, such as gene therapy and electrochemotherapy.