| Popis: |
Gene therapy can prevent or cure diverse pathological conditions associated with defects in gene expression. Three main delivery systems used to deliver genes to target cells include mechanical, biological, and chemical method of DNA transfection. However viral vectors were the most studied and reported; associated side effects and limitations of viral vectors (high risk of mutagenicity, immunogenicity, low production yield, limited gene-loading capacity, and poor host range) have led to the development of nonviral vectors. On the light of the above background, cationic lipids may be alternatively used as promising carriers for nucleic acid delivery. With certain advantages over viral vectors, such as low immunogenicity, high loading capacity, broad range of host cell, being cheap, and easy reproduction, cationic lipid will be the choice for future gene delivery system. This chapter provides an overview of recent developments employed for in vitro and in vivo delivery of therapeutically important nucleic acids using different types of cationic lipids. |
