Polyelectrolytes for cell encapsulation

Recent advances in the use of polyelectrolyte materials for cell encapsulation are reviewed, with a focus on three current challenges: tunable mechanical properties, controlled cell adhesion, and enhanced oxygen supply. New notable results include methods for creating stable alginate–silica complexes, techniques for incorporating RGD-containing peptides into alginate gels, and an improved understanding of the effect of charge density on cell–material interactions.