Plasmid DNA-loaded chitosan/TPP nanoparticles for topical gene delivery

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Gene Therapy
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Topical plasmid DNA delivery is a promising gene therapy approach.
• Chitosan nanoparticles (CS-NPs) are explored as gene carriers, but their efficacy for skin gene delivery requires further investigation.
• Limited data exists on chitosan-based systems for DNA delivery to the skin.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the potential of pDNA-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (CS-NPs) for effective skin gene delivery.
• To assess the in vitro and in vivo transfection efficiency of CS-NPs in rat skin models.
• To investigate the stability and gene expression profile following topical application of CS-NPs.

Main Methods:

• CS-NPs were prepared via ionotropic gelation of chitosan with sodium tripolyphosphate.
• In vitro characterization included size, surface charge, and transfection studies using fibroblast cell lines.
• In vivo studies involved topical application of pDNA-loaded CS-NPs to Sprague Dawley rat skin, followed by assessment of β-galactosidase expression over seven days.

Main Results:

• CS-NPs demonstrated favorable in vitro characteristics and protected pDNA from enzymatic degradation.
• Sustained β-galactosidase expression was observed in nanoparticle-treated rat skin for up to seven days post-application.
• Significantly higher transfection efficiency was noted in the skin of baby rats compared to adult rats.

Conclusions:

• Chitosan nanoparticles exhibit significant in vivo transfection potential for topical skin gene delivery in rats.
• CS-NPs offer a protective effect on plasmid DNA, ensuring sustained gene expression.
• Age-dependent differences in transfection efficiency suggest potential for targeted applications in different age groups.