Implantable pneumatically actuated microsystem for renal pressure-mediated transfection in mice

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Medical Devices
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• In vivo transfection is crucial for biological research and drug development.
• Existing renal pressure-mediated transfection requires abdominal surgery, limiting its application.
• An innovative, less invasive method is needed for in vivo kidney transfection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an implantable microsystem for non-invasive renal pressure-mediated transfection.
• To fabricate a Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) device for in vivo gene delivery to the kidney.
• To demonstrate the efficacy of the novel system in performing transfection without abdominal surgery.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of an implantable microsystem using MEMS technology.
• Incorporation of a polydimethylsiloxane pneumatic balloon actuator (PBA) for kidney compression.
• Non-invasive actuation of the PBA via external air pressure through a needle-inserted port.

Main Results:

• Successful in vivo renal pressure-mediated transfection was achieved using the implantable microsystem.
• The system demonstrated effective transfection when activated at 60kPa for 10 seconds.
• This marks the first report of an implantable MEMS device enabling in vivo kidney transfection with naked plasmid DNA.

Conclusions:

• The developed implantable MEMS microsystem offers a minimally invasive approach for in vivo renal transfection.
• This technology advances the field of gene therapy and biological research by simplifying transfection procedures.
• The system holds potential for broader applications in drug delivery and therapeutic interventions targeting the kidney.