Aim: The aim of this study was to develop zeta-potential-changing nanoparticles (NPs) combining cell-penetrating peptides for gene delivery. Methods & materials: NPs were formed using phosphorylated carboxymethyl cellulose–glucosamine 6-phosphate (CMC-G6P) and polyethylene imine–polyarginine conjugates. Phosphate release was evaluated using intestinal alkaline phosphatase and cell lines. Transfection studies with plasmid DNA were then performed. Results: The zeta potential of CMC-G6P/branched PEI NPs was-3 mV and switched to +4 mV after intestinal alkaline phosphatase cleavage. The released phosphate in human colon adenocarcinoma cell line was more pronounced than human embryonic kidney cell line 293. Transfection studies demonstrated the greatest expression of plasmid DNA when being incorporated into CMC-G6P/polyethylene imine-polyarginine NPs. Conclusion: Novel zeta potential changing NPs combining cell-penetrating peptides are a promising tool to deliver DNA drugs to target cells.

Products Used in this Publication

Polyarginine (RRRRRRRRR, D-Arg9, M _w ∼1423.71)