Nanocarrier cross-linking density and pH sensitivity regulate intracellular gene transfer

Nano Lett. 2009 Dec;9(12):4467-73. doi: 10.1021/nl902789s.

Abstract

Treatment of diseases on the molecular level by genetic material is limited by effective delivery mechanisms. We focused on the synthesis of a pH-sensitive gene delivery vehicle based on dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA) with tunable swelling, cross-linking density, and DNA release kinetics within the endosomal pH range. Our strategy, which utilized a single step for DNA encapsulation, enhanced gene transfection efficiency and reduced cytotoxicity relative to polyethyleneimine (PEI) and poly-L-lysine (PLL).

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Cross-Linking Reagents / chemistry
  • DNA / chemistry*
  • DNA / pharmacokinetics*
  • DNA / ultrastructure
  • Drug Carriers / chemistry*
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Materials Testing
  • Methacrylates / chemistry*
  • Nanostructures / chemistry*
  • Nanostructures / ultrastructure*
  • Transfection / methods*

Substances

  • Cross-Linking Reagents
  • Drug Carriers
  • Methacrylates
  • DNA
  • 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate