Polymeric gene carriers.
Polymeric gene carriers are a potential alternative to using viral vectors. Polymeric carriers have relatively low immunogenicity and cytotoxicity. In addition, polymeric carriers can accommodate large-size DNA, be conjugated with appropriate functionalities, and be administered repeatedly. In spite of these advantages, polymeric gene carriers have some limitations, such as low gene transfection efficiencies and relatively short duration of gene expression. Therefore, extensive research has been conducted toward the development of efficient polymeric carriers. In this review, we discuss current problems associated with polymeric gene carriers and various strategies against transfection barriers in particular, gene stabilization and protection, cellular targeting, endosomal escaping, nuclear targeting, unpackaging, and biocompatibility. Finally, requirements for future polymeric gene carriers are considered. With all these ongoing efforts, polymeric carriers have become one of the promising gene delivery methods for human gene therapy.
Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, The University of Utah, 421 Wakara Way, Suite 318, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA.
Han Chang
HC
Kang
Minhyung
M
Lee
You Han
YH
Bae
D000818:Animals; D004247:DNA / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005544:Forecasting; D018014:Gene Transfer Techniques; D015316:Genetic Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D005822:Genetic Vectors; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D011108:Polymers / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000737:chemistry / Q000627:therapeutic use
D011108:Polymers; D004247:DNA