Gene Delivery Systems in Surgery

Abstract

Increased understanding of the genetic basis of human disease has led to a number of potential gene-based therapies for various medical and surgical disorders. The development of efficient methods for delivering genes to mammalian cells in vitro has increased the potential clinical utility of gene-based therapies; however, a major focus of research has been more efficient delivery to appropriate target cells, in vivo as well as in vitro, to establish gene therapy as an effective clinical modality for common disorders. Despite substantial progress, a number of critical technical issues to enhance and optimize not only gene transfer but also gene expression must be resolved. These future technological developments will be essential for the widespread clinical implementation of gene-based therapy.

Electroporation-mediated pain-killer gene therapy for mononeuropathic rats

“…No significant differences Figure 4 Thermal-withdrawal latency was significantly increased for CCI rats at 6,8,10,12 were demonstrated when control and treatment groups were compared (Figures 4b and 5b).…”

“…Retroviral vectors require replicating cells for integration and expression, and carry only relatively small segments of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). 12,13 Furthermore, adenoviral vectors necessitate repeat administration due to their transient expression, with strong associated antigenicity. By contrast, nonviral gene-transfer systems, which use naked plasmid DNA, are considered reliable and simple.…”

Gene Transfer to the Thymus A Means of Abrogating the Immune Response to Recombinant Adenovirus

“…Several vectors are available for in vivo gene transfer. 2 The use of plasmid DNA has been hindered by its general inability to accomplish efficient gene transfer, though it has proven effective when directly injected into muscle. 3 Results with DNA-liposome complexes have varied, depending on the liposome preparation used.…”

In‐vivo particle mediated delivery of mRNA to mammalian tissues: ballistic and biologic effects

“…The ideal gene therapeutic strategy would allow the introduction of the gene of interest into cells of living animals with great efficiency, low cost, and with minimal effect to the target cells 10 . Unfortunately, viral transfection, chemical methods, and direct injection or electropolation do not fulfill these mandates.…”