Single-Cell Selective Retrieval Method Using Cone-Shaped Light-Responsive Gas-Generating Polymer Microscaffold Array Chip

The detection and retrieval of specific single cells within a cell population is useful for elucidating cellular function as well as early-stage cancer diagnosis by detecting circulating tumor cells. Microcapillaries are used to retrieve specific single cells from cell populations; however, quick single-cell retrieval that firmly adheres to the substrate without damaging the cell is difficult. In this study, we propose a single-cell selective retrieval method using a cone-shaped light-responsive gas-generating polymer (LGP) microscaffold array chip. An LGP microscaffold array chip with cone-shaped LGP microscaffolds was fabricated without any special equipment. When human cervical cancer cells were spread on the LGP microscaffold array chip, adhesion was achieved, and single cells were arranged on up to 73.3% of the cone-shaped LGP microscaffolds. When low-toxicity ultraviolet A light was irradiated from the back of the LGP microscaffold array chip, only a single cell adhering to the cone-shaped LGP microscaffold was released by the generated N₂ gas bubbles. More than 90% of the retrieved cells adhered, spread, and could be cultured for over 24 h. In conclusion, the proposed method is a simple and quick single-cell retrieval method that requires only a conventional inverted fluorescence microscope.