electroporationbased

Electroporation-based refers to techniques and devices that rely on controlled electric pulses to transiently permeabilize cell membranes, enabling uptake of exogenous molecules such as DNA, RNA, proteins, or small drugs. The process occurs when an external electric field destabilizes the phospholipid bilayer, forming nanopores and larger disruptions that permit molecular entry. After the pulse, cells reseal the membrane, entrapping the molecules inside.

Key parameters include the electric field strength, pulse duration, number of pulses, pulse shape, electrode configuration, and the conductivity of the medium. Reversible electroporation aims to achieve molecule delivery with high viability; irreversible electroporation produces persistent membrane damage leading to cell death, and is used for non-thermal tissue ablation. In practice, cell and tissue response depends on cell type, size, and environment.

Common applications include in vitro transfection of cells or tissues for research; delivery of plasmid DNA, siRNA, or CRISPR components; in vivo DNA vaccines or gene therapy; electrochemotherapy to increase uptake of chemotherapeutic drugs in tumors; irreversible electroporation as a method for tumor ablation; and other therapeutic uses such as delivery of macromolecules to difficult-to-transfect cells and tissues.

Advantages include non-viral delivery, relative simplicity, and the ability to deliver large molecules; limitations include the need for optimization for each system, potential tissue damage, discomfort due to muscle contractions, and variability across tissues. Device design, electrode configuration, and pulse protocols strongly influence efficiency and safety. Ethical and regulatory considerations apply to clinical applications.