Lasing within live cells containing intracellular optical microresonators for barcode-type cell tagging and tracking

Abstract

We report on a laser that is fully embedded into a single live cell. By harnessing natural endocytosis of the cell we introduce a fluorescent whispering gallery mode (WGM) micro-resonator into the cell cytoplasm. On pumping with nanojoule light pulses, green laser emission is generated inside the cells. Our approach can be applied to different cell types and cells with micro-resonators remain viable for weeks under standard conditions. The characteristics of the lasing spectrum provide each cell with a barcode-type label which enables uniquely identifying and tracking of individual migrating cells. Self-sustained lasing from cells paves the way to new forms of cell tracking, intracellular sensing and adaptive imaging.