Jenna Leigh Balestrini

Title: Innovations by Jenna Leigh Balestrini

Introduction

Jenna Leigh Balestrini is an accomplished inventor based in Boston, MA. She has made significant contributions to the field of biotechnology, particularly in the area of cell transfection and electroporation. With a total of five patents to her name, Balestrini is recognized for her innovative approaches to enhancing the efficiency of genetic material transfer in cells.

Latest Patents

Balestrini's latest patents include a "Method and apparatus for high throughput high efficiency transfection of cells." This invention allows for the hands-free, automated, and continuous transfer of genetic and other materials to cells. The system utilizes a microfluidic hydrodynamic sheath flow configuration, which pushes cells from side streams containing a cell culture medium to a central stream with an electroporation buffer. Additionally, she has developed a "Method and apparatus for electroporation of acoustically-aligned cells." This method also facilitates the hands-free transfer of materials into cells while acoustophoretically focusing them. The invention includes a control method for detecting cell locations and modulating drive signals to optimize the process.

Career Highlights

Balestrini works at the Charles Stark Draper Laboratory, Inc., where she has been instrumental in advancing research in her field. Her work has not only contributed to scientific knowledge but has also paved the way for practical applications in biotechnology and medicine.

Collaborations

Some of her notable coworkers include Vishal Tandon and Jeffrey T. Borenstein. Their collaborative efforts have further enhanced the research and development initiatives at the laboratory.

Conclusion

Jenna Leigh Balestrini's innovative work in cell transfection and electroporation exemplifies the impact of her contributions to biotechnology. Her patents reflect a commitment to advancing scientific understanding and improving methodologies in genetic material transfer.