Cell-based aqueous two-phase systems for therapeutics

Cell-based aqueous two-phase system technologies present an emerging and promising translational tool for the development of next-generation therapeutic applications. Advantages such as biocompatibility, scalability and ease of implementation confirm this possibility. The aim of this perspective article is to present a brief, process-oriented analysis of cell-based aqueous two-phase system strategies for therapeutic purposes, highlighting their potential advantages and limitations. These strategies include regenerative therapies, high-throughput screening platforms and clinical diagnostics. Special attention is given to the implementation of polyethylene glycol and dextran aqueous two-phase systems in the culture, expansion and separation of cells to accomplish novel diagnostic and therapeutic tasks for the healthcare, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry