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Updated: Aug 18, 2026

Monitoring Plasmid Replication in Live Mammalian Cells over Multiple Generations by Fluorescence Microscopy
Published on: December 13, 2012
Hypothesis: naked plasmid DNA is taken up by cells in vivo by a receptor-mediated process
1Department of Pediatrics, Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 53705, USA.
Abstract:
Following the initial demonstration that intramuscularly-injected naked plasmid DNA (pDNA) is expressed in myofibers, it was shown that pDNA can be used for vaccination purposes. More recent studies have indicated that naked pDNA can also achieve high levels of transgene expression in vivo. This efficiency of naked pDNA expression, especially via intravascular route, is truly astounding. In this prospective review, we examine the possible mechanisms of naked pDNA uptake. The possible mechanisms; (a) large membrane disruption, (b) small membrane pores, and (c) receptor-mediated endocytosis, are considered in turn. Some recent original laboratory data relevant to these hypotheses are also presented.
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