Nanoparticles as Non-Viral Gene Delivery Vectors

Abstract:

Gene therapy is being considered as a potential medical revolution. Initially, it was viewed as an approach for treating hereditary diseases, but now wide recognition of its potential role in the treatment of acquired diseases such as cancer is being envisaged. Non-viral vectors based on the use of cationic lipids or polymers appear to have promising potential, given the problems of safety encountered with viral vectors. Based on the advantages and disadvantages of existing vectors and on the hurdles encountered with these carriers, the aim of this review is to describe the ''perfect vector'' for systemic gene therapy against cancer. Non-viral vectors consist of a vector backbone, usually a cationic lipid or polymer able to form stable complexes with the plasmid, modified by incorporation of functional groups, and often combined with biomaterials to enhance cytocompatibility. Currently, the major drawback of gene therapy is the gene transfection rate. The two main types of vectors that are used in gene therapy are based on viral or non-viral gene delivery systems. The viral gene delivery system shows a high transfection yield but it has many disadvantages, such as oncogenic effects and immunogenicity. In the present communication, we report on a new gene delivery system based on the various nanoparticulate approaches like Cationic lipids, Cationic polymers, Gold Nanoparticles, Magnetic nanoparticles, Quantum dots, Silica nanoparticles, Fullerenes, CNTs, Supramolecular systems.

Key words: Nanoparticles, Non-viral Vectors, Gene therapy, Transfection.