NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - New research indicates that silica nanoparticles can act as DNA carriers, offering a nonviral method of gene delivery.
In the study, Dr. Paras N. Prasad and colleagues, from the State University of New York at Buffalo, synthesized various silica nanoparticles that were able to condense and protect both plasmid and genomic DNA. Some of the nanoparticles were labeled with fluorescent dyes to facilitate cellular tracking with microscopy.
The researchers’ findings appear in the December 27th early edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
The nanoparticles were readily admitted to the cytoplasm of the test cells, the investigators note. Once in the cell, the nanoparticles protected their genetic payload from enzymatic degradation and delivered the DNA to the nucleus. Lastly, successful gene transfection was observed.
The use of modified nanoparticles combined with optical tracking “provides a promising future direction for targeted therapy with enhanced efficacy as well as real-time monitoring of drug action,” the investigators state.
Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 2004, online early edition.
MeSH Headings:Biological Therapy: Chemistry: Chemistry, Physical: DNA, Recombinant: Genetic Engineering: Genetic Techniques: Genetic Vectors: Investigative Techniques: Particle Size: Physical Sciences: Therapeutics: Gene Therapy: Analytical, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Techniques and Equipment: Physical SciencesCopyright © 2002 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved. Republication or redistribution of Reuters content, including by framing or similar means, is expressly prohibited without the prior written consent of Reuters. Reuters shall not be liable for any errors or delays in the content, or for any actions taken in reliance thereon. Reuters and the Reuters sphere logo are registered trademarks and trademarks of the Reuters group of companies around the world.
