The Role of Supramolecular Chemistry in Responsive Vectors for Gene Delivery

Abstract

The investigation of the self‐assembly between nucleic acids and cationic molecules, such as lipids, polymers, or dendrimers, has guided and will continue to guide the development of nonviral vectors for gene delivery. By engineering these types of supramolecular complexes to facilitate the transport, protection, and release of DNA, scientists are working to overcome the barriers that have limited transfection efficiencies. Understanding the self‐assembly of cationic lipids into liposomes or micelles, as well as studying the structure of their resulting complexes with DNA, is key to enhancing gene delivery research. This chapter discusses cationic lipid–DNA supramolecular structures, their role in gene transfection, and the synthesis and evaluation of new responsive cationic lipids which aim to control both the complexation and release of DNA.

Biomedical Applications of Supramolecular Systems Based on Host–Guest Interactions

“…The application of supramolecular chemistry for gene delivery has been a hot research topic in biomedical field. , Simple cationic macrocyclic molecules, like star-shaped derivatives or amphiphilic macrocyclic molecules, were utilized to condense nucleic acid by electrostatic interaction. ,,− Cell-penetrating peptide conjugated macrocyclic molecules were fabricated to enhance the cellular uptake and DNA delivery efficacy . Researchers also chemically conjugated macrocyclic molecules onto cationic polymer chains to enhance the gene delivery efficacy, while decreasing the toxicity of the cationic polymers. , Supramolecular micelles constructed by amphiphilic macrocyclic molecules were used to encapsulate genes by supramolecular self-assembly for accomplishing the gene delivery. ,− In addition, targeting ligand folic acid was conjugated onto such micelles to realize targeted gene delivery .…”

Gd(III) ion-chelated supramolecular assemblies composed of PGMA-based polycations for effective biomedical applications

“…16,17 Owing to the dynamically unable ability of supramolecular polymers, the application of supramolecular chemistry for gene delivery has been a hot research topic in the biomedical field. 18,19 The construction of supramolecular polycations via host-guest interaction is a popular strategy for high-efficiency gene delivery systems. 20 In particular, cyclodextrins (CDs) and their derivatives have been widely utilized for constructing supramolecular gene delivery systems, mainly because of their superior biocompatibility.…”