Reversible electroporation: controllably opening the cellular doorway

Reversible electroporation (RE) involves applying pulsed electric fields to briefly disrupt cell membrane channels, allowing molecular transfer while preserving cell viability. Advances in RE combined with micro- and nano-devices have improved efficiency and safety in cellular analysis and engineering, holding substantial promise for biological research and precision medicine. This review summarizes progress in RE technology, spanning underlying theoretical principles, practical implementation, and emerging applications. By integrating mechanistic insights with parameter assessment, we strengthen process understanding of RE to support further optimization. To clarify RE implementation strategies, we present advances in micro- and nano-devices based on varying electric field control approaches. Using these platforms, we examine improvements in intracellular analysis, cellular engineering, drug delivery, and cell sampling to illustrate state-of-the-art RE applications. Finally, we outline future directions and trends for RE systems aimed at molecular mechanism mapping and personalized precision medicine, emphasizing their increasing relevance in practical settings.