Detaching Cells From Materials: Techniques and Biomedical Applications

ABSTRACT Having access to high‐quality cell populations is essential for biomedical research, diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic applications. Traditional enzymatic methods, such as trypsinization, remain widely used to detach cells from supporting material surfaces, though they often compromise cell surface integrity, viability and functionality. To address these limitations, diverse strategies have emerged that enable a much gentler release of cells from material surfaces. The use of external physical stimuli (like shear stresses, light, temperature, magnetic fields), chemical stimuli (based on changes in pH or ligand‐exchange based detachment) and biological stimuli (like aptamers and nucleic acid sequences) have been explored for the purpose of non‐invasive cell detachment. This review discusses the principles, mechanisms, advantages, and limitations of these most diverse cell detachment technologies. By providing this comprehensive perspective, we hope to guide researchers in selecting the most suitable techniques for their specific needs and to inspire further innovation in this vital biomedical area.