Dutch researchers have developed a highly efficient method of transferring DNA into stem cells using a lab on a chip style approach.Stem cells have generated considerable interest among medical scientists as modified stem cells offer a potential route to treat diseases using cell therapy. However, the cells are often found in very low numbers and are difficult to isolate, so it is important to be able to modify them efficiently. Standard techniques include bulk electroporation, in which an electrical pulse is applied to cell suspensions to create pores in the cell membranes. Yet these are not particularly effective, with typically only 1-11 per cent of stem cells taking up DNA through the pores.
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