A new method for encapsulation of living cells: preliminary results with PC12 cell line

A new method is described for encapsulation of living cells. PC12 rat adren al pheochromocytoma cells, which have been shown to synthesize, store and r elease dopamine were employed. The particles are made first and the cells t hen incorporated in a gentle mechanical procedure. The morphology (by light and electron microscopic observation), stability, rheology, texture and pe rmeability of these microcapsules provided by Kappa Biotech were investigat ed. Membrane permeability studies demonstrated exclusion of 69 000 Da human serum albumin, but equilibrium of D-glucose and inulin was within 24 h, in dicating a molecular weight cut-off in the 5000-70 000 Da range. The viabil ity and the function of the encapsulated cells were evaluated by measuring the spontaneous release of dopamine by high performance liquid chromatograp hy with electrochemical detection. The results show that dopamine-secreting cells can be sequestered in a semi-permeable capsule and still display goo d viability and proliferation for at least 1 month.