Selective separation and co-culture of cells by photo-induced enhancement of cell adhesion (PIECA).

Taking advantage of the phenomenon that animal cells adhering to a culture substrate are temporarily immobilized by light irradiation, we established a technique to manipulate the cells adhering to a culture substrate under microscopic observation. Using this technique, we demonstrated a separation of cells adhering to a culture substrate and fabrication of an elaborately patterned co-culture system.