Dextran-protamine polycation: an efficient nonviral and haemocompatible gene delivery system

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Gene Therapy
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Nonviral vectors are gaining interest in gene therapy due to their unique properties.
• Developing effective nonviral gene delivery systems requires advanced cationic polymers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design a cationic dextran derivative (Dex-P) using protamine for targeted cellular binding.
• To evaluate Dex-P as a haemocompatible, non-toxic, and efficient nonviral gene delivery candidate.

Main Methods:

• Nanoplexes were formulated with calf thymus DNA and Dex-P.
• Characterization included FTIR, GPC, TNBS assay, DLS, TEM, and acid-base titration.
• Stability was assessed via gel electrophoresis and EtBr displacement; haemocompatibility and transfection efficiency were evaluated in vitro.

Main Results:

• Nanoplexes exhibited nanosize, spherical morphology, and good stability.
• Dex-P demonstrated excellent non-toxicity and haemocompatibility.
• In vitro studies showed high cellular uptake and gene expression in HepG2 cells.

Conclusions:

• Dex-P possesses favorable physicochemical and biological properties for gene delivery.
• This dextran-protamine conjugate is a promising candidate for nonviral gene therapy applications.