A potential targeting gene vector based on biotinylated polyethyleneimine/avidin bioconjugates.

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Gene Therapy
• Nanomedicine

Background:

• Non-viral vectors are crucial for safe gene delivery.
• Polyethylenimine (PEI) is a common non-viral vector but has limitations.
• Avidin's biocompatibility and liver accumulation properties offer potential for improved gene delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel non-viral gene vector by bioconjugating avidin with biotinylated polyethylenimine (PEI).
• To enhance gene delivery efficiency and safety specifically for liver cells.
• To evaluate the physicochemical properties, cytotoxicity, and transfection efficacy of the novel vector.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized biotinylated PEI/avidin bioconjugate (ABP) using biotin-avidin interactions.
• Analyzed physiochemical characteristics of ABP/pDNA complexes (particle size, surface charge).
• Evaluated in vitro cytotoxicity and transfection efficiency in HepG2, Hela, and 293 T cells, using 25 kDa PEI as a control.

Main Results:

• ABP efficiently condensed pDNA at an N/P ratio of 4.
• ABP/pDNA complexes had particle sizes <220 nm and surface charges ~27 mV (N/P 2-60).
• ABP demonstrated significantly lower cytotoxicity and higher transfection efficacy in HepG2 cells compared to 25 kDa PEI.

Conclusions:

• The novel ABP vector exhibits enhanced transfection efficacy and safety in HepG2 cells.
• Avidin's biocompatibility and specific interactions with HepG2 cells contribute to improved performance.
• ABP represents a promising non-viral vector for gene delivery in liver cells.