Covalently linked DNA/protein multilayered film for controlled DNA release

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Layer-by-layer (LBL) assembly is a common technique for fabricating multilayered films.
• Traditional LBL films often rely on electrostatic attraction, which can limit stability and control.
• Developing stable, biocompatible nanostructures for controlled DNA release is crucial for gene therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate a stable, biocompatible single-strand DNA (ssDNA)/bovine serum albumin (BSA) multilayered film for controlled DNA release.
• To investigate the characteristics and DNA release profile of the covalently linked LBL film.
• To explore the potential of this nanostructure for gene therapy applications.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of ssDNA/BSA multilayered films on various substrates using a formaldehyde-induced, covalently linked LBL assembly technique.
• Characterization of film structure and composition using UV-vis spectrometry, surface plasmon resonance (SPR), and atomic force microscopy (AFM).
• Monitoring of controlled DNA release by adjusting proteinase K incubation time.

Main Results:

• Successful fabrication of a stable, biocompatible ssDNA/BSA multilayered film with tunable ssDNA and BSA content by controlling bilayer number.
• Demonstrated adjustable release of ssDNA and amino acids by varying proteinase K incubation time.
• Covalently assembled LBL films exhibited superior stability, controllability, and flexibility compared to electrostatically assembled films.

Conclusions:

• The developed covalently assembled ssDNA/BSA film offers an innovative approach for engineering DNA/protein nanostructures for controlled DNA release.
• This method provides enhanced stability and control over DNA release kinetics.
• The film's adaptability to different substrates makes it highly feasible for developing nanoparticle-based gene therapy systems with significant biomedical potential.