CHAPTER 10: Magnetic Decoration and Labeling of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

The majority of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells can interact with a wide range of magnetic nano- and microparticles, molecular labels or paramagnetic cations. The magnetically modified cells usually maintain their viability and the presence of magnetic (nano)materials on their surfaces, in protoplasm or in intracellular organelles can provide additional functionalities. Magnetically responsive cells can be easily separated from complex samples using magnetic separators, can be monitored using magnetic resonance imaging or heated during magnetic-fluid hyperthermia. Available magnetization procedures are summarized in this chapter, as well as possible efficient applications of magnetically modified cells in cell biology, medicine, bioanalaysis, biotechnology and environmental technology, for example as whole-cell biocatalysts, parts of biosensor systems or adsorbents of organic and inorganic xenobiotics removal.