Modular construction of multifunctional bioresponsive cell-targeted nanoparticles for gene delivery

Bioconjug Chem. 2011 Feb 16;22(2):156-68. doi: 10.1021/bc100149g. Epub 2011 Jan 11.

Abstract

Multifunctional and modular block copolymers prepared from biocompatible monomers and linked by a bioreducible disulfide linkage have been prepared using a combination of ring-opening and atom-transfer radical polymerizations (ATRP). The presence of terminal functionality via ATRP allowed cell-targeting folic acid groups to be attached in a controllable manner, while the block copolymer architecture enabled well-defined nanoparticles to be prepared by a water-oil-water double emulsion procedure to encapsulate DNA with high efficiency. Gene delivery assays in a Calu-3 cell line indicated specific folate-receptor-mediated uptake of the nanoparticles, and triggered release of the DNA payload via cleavage of the disulfide link resulted in enhanced transgene expression compared to nonbioreducible analogues. These materials offer a promising and generic means to deliver a wide variety of therapeutic payloads to cells in a selective and tunable way.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • DNA / chemistry
  • Folic Acid / chemistry
  • Gene Transfer Techniques*
  • Humans
  • Luciferases / analysis
  • Luciferases / metabolism
  • Models, Biological
  • Molecular Structure
  • Nanoparticles / chemistry*
  • Plasmids / chemistry
  • Polymerization
  • Polymers / chemical synthesis
  • Polymers / chemistry
  • Stereoisomerism

Substances

  • Polymers
  • DNA
  • Folic Acid
  • Luciferases