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Published on: January 19, 2019
Surface-Mediated Delivery of DNA: Cationic Polymers Take Charge
Christopher M Jewell1, David M Lynn
1Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Wisconsin - Madison 1415 Engineering Drive, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
Cationic polymers are increasingly used for surface-mediated DNA delivery. This review covers physical adsorption and layer-by-layer methods for creating advanced materials for cell transfection.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Gene Delivery
Background:
- Cationic polymers are crucial for designing materials for DNA delivery.
- Recent advancements focus on surface-mediated delivery to cells and tissues.
- Two main strategies involve physical adsorption and layer-by-layer assembly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent developments in cationic polymer-based DNA delivery systems.
- To discuss the role of polymer properties in surface-mediated transfection.
- To highlight future opportunities in localized gene delivery.
Main Methods:
- Physical adsorption of preformed polyplexes (cationic polymer and DNA aggregates) onto surfaces.
- Layer-by-layer adsorption of DNA and cationic polymers to create multilayered thin films.
- Fabrication of nanoscale assemblies for controlled DNA release.
Main Results:
- Both physical adsorption and layer-by-layer methods show promise for surface-mediated DNA delivery.
- The physical and chemical properties of cationic polymers significantly influence transfection efficiency.
- These approaches enable controlled DNA release for targeted cellular uptake.
Conclusions:
- Cationic polymers offer versatile platforms for advanced DNA delivery systems.
- Surface-mediated strategies are key for localized and efficient gene transfection.
- Further research into polymer behavior can unlock new in vitro and in vivo applications.
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