SAW Accelerates Non-Destructive Cell Detachment from Thermoresponsive Surfaces

The rapid and nondestructive detachment of cells from culture surfaces is critical for obtaining high-quality cell populations in tissue engineering applications. Thermoresponsive coatings, such as poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM), enable enzyme-free cell release; however, their practical utility is often constrained by inherently slow detachment kinetics. Here, we report a hybrid strategy that synergistically integrates surface acoustic wave (SAW) stimulation with a PNIPAM-based coating to markedly accelerate cell detachment. Under optimized conditions, this system achieves a cell detachment efficiency of up to 96% while reducing the detachment time from 39 to 9 min─corresponding to a 76.9% decrease─without compromising postdetachment cell viability (>95%). Morphological analyses and comparative studies indicate that SAW stimulation promotes rapid cell release by inducing cell-shape remodeling in concert with interfacial weakening on the PNIPAM substrate. Overall, this combined acoustic–thermoresponsive platform offers an efficient, enzyme-free approach for rapid cell harvesting while preserving excellent cell viability and structural integrity.