[Nonviral gene transfer in vivo in gene therapy]

Recent findings connected with in vivo use of artificial macromolecular complexes (genosomes) for functional gene transfer and delivery are discussed in the paper. Non-viral methods are the most safe for the purpose of human gene delivery. The cationic liposomes containing cholesterol are the most suitable for this purpose, because they possess high biodegradability and stability in blood stream. The DNA-liposome complexes should: (i) contain DNA in the condition at most protected from environmental influence, (ii) be rather homogeneous and of small size (40-80 nm). Injections of complexes into blood are the most effective; in a respect of organospecifity may be achieved by appropriate ligand selection. It is the most perspectively to increase the expression level by combining liposomes with viral peptides.