Nanojoule sub-20 fs laser pulses at 85 MHz repetition rate can be used to perform targeted transfection and optical nanoinjection of macromolecules as well as optical knock-out of intracellular organelles. Of major interest is the transfection of stem cells. Stem cells may revolutionize current therapy such as gene therapy and tissue engineering. Genetically modified stem cells can be used for the production of immune system mediator proteins. femtOgene® has been employed for the efficient targeted transfection of humansalivary gland and pancreas stem cells.

Chromosome dissection by femtosecond laser pulses

Nanoprocessing of a human chromosome

Targeted transfection of human stem cells. Green fluorescence occurs 1-2 days after sub-20 fs laser optoporation and diffusion of GFP plasmid into the cytoplasm.