For successful gene therapy, expansion of appropriate gene delivery systems could be one of the factors of major significance. Gene therapy provides large opportunities for treating diseases, including genetic disorders, infections, and cancer. Polymeric carriers have relatively low cytotoxicity and immunogenicity. Polymeric gene carriers are a potential substitute to using viral vectors. Overall, polymeric carriers can contain large-sized DNA, be conjugated with suitable functionalities, and be administered frequently. However, polymeric gene carriers have some restrictions, such as low gene transfection efficiencies and a moderately short period of gene expression. This study explores the current status of development of polymeric gene carriers, and presents guidelines for the prospective use of the polymer-based gene delivery systems in gene therapy.
Keywords: gene carriers; gene delivery; gene therapy; immunogenicity.