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Published on: August 6, 2019
Lysine-based peptide-functionalized PLGA foams for controlled DNA delivery
Hemin Nie1, Shih Tak Khew, Lai Yeng Lee
1Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 4, Singapore 117576, Singapore.
Summary
Modifying poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) foams with lysine peptides enhances DNA delivery. This charge modification improves DNA adsorption and sustained release, proving beneficial for tissue engineering applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Gene Delivery
- Tissue Engineering
Background:
- Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) scaffolds exhibit hydrophobicity and negative surface charges, hindering controlled release and tissue engineering.
- Surface modification is crucial to overcome these limitations for enhanced biomaterial functionality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of surface charge modification on PLGA micro-porous foams for DNA delivery and transfection.
- To evaluate the effects of tailored lysine peptides (K4 and K20) on DNA adsorption, release kinetics, and transfection efficiency.
Main Methods:
- PLGA micro-porous foams were functionalized with K4 and K20 peptides using EDC/NHS crosslinkers.
- X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirmed peptide conjugation and DNA adsorption.
- DNA adsorption capacity, release profiles, and DNA transfection (using BMP2 plasmid) were analyzed.
Main Results:
- DNA adsorption and release were significantly influenced by the surface charge modification of PLGA foams.
- K4- and K20-functionalized foams demonstrated more sustained DNA release compared to unmodified foams.
- Sustained DNA release resulted in negligible cytotoxicity and prolonged gene expression, indicating improved DNA delivery.
Conclusions:
- Surface charge modification of PLGA foams with lysine peptides is an effective strategy for enhancing DNA delivery.
- The modified PLGA foams show promise as efficient and safe DNA delivery devices for tissue engineering applications.
