Plasmid DNA and mRNA delivery: Approaches and challenges

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology and Biomedical Engineering
• Molecular Biology and Genetics

Background:

• Plasmid DNA and messenger RNA (mRNA) are crucial for gene therapy, vaccine development, and regenerative medicine.
• While plasmid DNA offers sustained gene expression for long-term therapies, mRNA excels in dynamic, time-sensitive applications like COVID-19 vaccines.
• Efficient delivery of these nucleic acids faces hurdles like immune response, degradation, and poor cellular uptake.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the complementary roles of plasmid DNA and mRNA in advanced biomedical applications.
• To highlight novel delivery strategies for overcoming current challenges in nucleic acid delivery.
• To discuss emerging technologies enhancing the utility of DNA and mRNA systems.

Main Methods:

• Review of structural and functional features of plasmid DNA and mRNA.
• Analysis of novel delivery routes including lipid nanoparticles, polymeric systems, biomimetic carriers, and hybrid systems.
• Examination of emerging technologies like CRISPR gene editing, self-amplifying RNA, and multiplexed nanoparticles.

Main Results:

• Plasmid DNA and mRNA possess complementary strengths for diverse therapeutic applications.
• Novel delivery systems effectively address challenges in stability, immune activation, and cellular uptake.
• Emerging technologies significantly enhance the versatility and efficacy of DNA and mRNA-based treatments.

Conclusions:

• Advances in plasmid DNA and mRNA delivery have transformed vaccine development and personalized medicine.
• These innovations promise to overcome current limitations, ushering in an era of precise and effective medical treatments.
• Revolutionary delivery methods offer enhanced stability and simplicity, driving significant medical progress.