Gene transfer in wound healing

Gene transfer refers to the introduction of DNA or RNA molecules into target cells. The purpose of gene transfer is cellular expression of the protein encoded by the nucleic acid. This process can lead to the addition or inhibition of a cellular function. The techniques for gene transfer can generally be divided into viral, chemical, electrical, or mechanical methods. Several different viral vectors can be used for in vitro gene transfer, but in vivo adenoviral vectors are the most successful for transfection of wounds. The chemical vectors include liposomes, calcium phosphate, and diethylaminoethyl-dextran. The most important mechanical methods for gene transfer are direct single injection of DNA, particle-mediated (gene gun) transfer, and microseeding. Existing techniques currently yield expression in the physiologic or supraphysiologic range for 1 to 2 weeks. A large number of potentially useful proteins could be delivered to healing wounds with gene-transfer techniques, including stimulatory and inhibitory peptides. It has also been shown that a tetracycline switch can be used to control the beginning, as well as the end, of gene expression. Gene transfer to wounds is a powerful experimental tool for targeted, consistent, local delivery of peptides in high concentrations to the wound environment. Gene transfer shows great potential for the treatment of wounds with specific biochemical or genetic defects.