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Controlled release of plasmid DNA from a genetically engineered silk-elastinlike hydrogel
Zaki Megeed1, Joseph Cappello, Hamidreza Ghandehari
1University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Baltimore 21201, USA.
Pharmaceutical Research
|August 16, 2002
Summary
Genetically engineered silk-elastinlike polymers (SELP) show promise as matrices for controlled DNA release. SELP hydrogels facilitate ion-exchange DNA release, influenced by ionic strength, SELP concentration, and cure time, indicating potential for gene delivery applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Gene Delivery
Background:
- Silk-elastinlike polymers (SELP) are genetically engineered protein-based materials.
- SELP can form hydrogels with tunable properties.
- Controlled release of nucleic acids is crucial for gene therapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate silk-elastinlike polymers (SELP) as a matrix for controlled plasmid DNA release.
- To understand the mechanism and kinetics of DNA release from SELP hydrogels.
Main Methods:
- Investigated the impact of SELP concentration, DNA concentration, SELP cure time, and buffer ionic strength on DNA release.
- Fitted release data to a known equation to determine DNA diffusivity.
- Utilized ion-exchange chromatography principles to analyze release.
Main Results:
- DNA release from SELP hydrogels occurs via an ion-exchange mechanism.
- Release rate is significantly affected by buffer ionic strength, SELP concentration, and SELP cure time.
- Apparent diffusivity of pRL-CMV plasmid DNA varied based on hydrogel composition and curing conditions.
Conclusions:
- SELP hydrogels demonstrate tunable properties for controlled DNA release.
- The ability to customize SELPs makes them attractive for gene delivery applications.
- Further research is warranted to explore SELPs in in situ gene delivery depots.