Cell Surface Engineering by Chemical Reaction and Remodeling

Cell surface modification with covalent approaches provides novel bioengineering tools to conjugate functional molecules and structures on the cell surface. Immobilization of specific molecules and structures can precisely control the interactions of the cell with its extracellular microenvironment. Since cell membrane contains functional molecules with specific chemical signatures, covalent transformation of cell surface molecules can form stable adducts to immobilize molecules with controlled density, defined organization, and spatiotemporal control. Particularly, covalent approaches for cell surface engineering are advantageous for long-term application where enhanced stability of the immobilized molecules is required. Depending on the nature of the target molecule and on the availability of cell surface functionalities, conjugation strategies should be selected, developed, and optimized. This strategy allows new molecular engineering tools to interrogate fundamental biological properties of cells and to develop cell-based therapeutics and diagnostic tools.