Windows to cell function and dysfunction: Signatures written in the boundary layers

The medium surrounding cells either in culture or in tissues contains a chemical mix varying with cell state. As solutes move in and out of the cytoplasmic compartment they set up characteristic signatures in the cellular boundary layers. These layers are complex physical and chemical environments t...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:BioEssays 2010-06, Vol.32 (6), p.514-523
Main Authors: Smith, Peter J.S, Collis, Leon P, Messerli, Mark A
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Boundary layer
Cell Physiological Phenomena - physiology
Cells, Cultured
chemical profiles
electrochemical sensing
Extracellular Space - metabolism
imaging
intercellular space
Models, Biological
unstirred layers
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Summary:The medium surrounding cells either in culture or in tissues contains a chemical mix varying with cell state. As solutes move in and out of the cytoplasmic compartment they set up characteristic signatures in the cellular boundary layers. These layers are complex physical and chemical environments the profiles of which reflect cell physiology and provide conduits for intercellular messaging. Here we review some of the most relevant characteristics of the extracellular/intercellular space. Our initial focus is primarily on cultured cells but we extend our consideration to the far more complex environment of tissues, and discuss how chemical signatures in the boundary layer can or may affect cell function. Critical to the entire essay are the methods used, or being developed, to monitor chemical profiles in the boundary layers. We review recent developments in ultramicro electrochemical sensors and tailored optical reporters suitable for the task in hand.
ISSN:0265-9247
1521-1878
DOI:10.1002/bies.200900173