Cell-directed integration into three-dimensional lipid-silica nanostructured matrices.

We report a unique approach in which living cells direct their integration into 3D solid-state nanostructures. Yeast cells deposited on a weakly condensed lipid/silica thin film mesophase actively reconstruct the surface to create a fully 3D bio/nano interface, composed of localized lipid bilayers enveloped by a lipid/silica mesophase, through a self-catalyzed silica condensation process. Remarkably, this integration process selects exclusively for living cells over the corresponding apoptotic cells (those undergoing programmed cell death), via the development of a pH gradient, which catalyzes silica deposition and the formation of a coherent interface between the cell and surrounding silica matrix.