Abstract
Non-viral gene delivery systems have become increasingly desirable in both basic research and clinical settings as they overcome some of the problems associated with viral vectors. Presently, non-viral carriers used for gene transfer consist mostly of liposomal formulations and cationic polymers. Starch, which is a biodegradable, biocompatible, non-toxic, and water soluble polysaccharide, was evaluated for its potential as a non-viral gene delivery carrier, after modifying it to cationic starch (Q-starch) by means of quaternization. Q-starch synthesis was assessed by means of nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and Kjeldahl method, demonstrating that all the chemical reactions occurred. The Q-starch potential to condense pDNA was evaluated by gel electrophoresis, dynamic light scattering, atomic force microscopy, and zeta potential, validating the formation of nano-sized, positively charged spherical complexes. Transfection efficiency experiments reveal that there are two barriers for efficient transfection: endosomal escape and complex de-complexation, while the latter appears to be the rate-limiting step. We propose that further improvement in transfection efficiency can be achieved by augmenting carrier lysosomotropic ability, as well as its ability to disconnect from the pDNA.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 552-561 |
Number of pages | 10 |
Journal | Polymers for Advanced Technologies |
Volume | 25 |
Issue number | 5 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 1 Jan 2014 |
Keywords
- Gene therapy
- Non-viral carrier
- Polysaccharide
- Quaternized starch
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Polymers and Plastics