Biomimetic Peptides: A New Generation of Gene Transfer Vectors

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

1 Research Assistant, Department of Nanobiotechnology, School of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran

2 Associate Professor, Department of Nanobiotechnology, School of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Gene therapy is a new approach that aims to modify defective genes or intracellular expression of therapeutic proteins, and this depends on the use of high-efficiency gene transfer systems. Although there have been relative successes in gene transfer through viral carriers, these methods still face limitations such as low genetic material carrying capacity, immunogenicity, and toxicity that require further research to address. An alternative method used for this purpose is to use non-viral systems and vectors. Lipids, polymers, proteins, and cationic peptides are among the most well-known non-viral systems that have received much attention due to their lower toxicity despite their lower transfection efficiency. New nano-vectors must carry the gene and protect it against degradation, overcome biological barriers, high transfection efficiencies, and gene release, and not induce toxicity and stimulate the immune system. Vectors of the new generation of chimeric nano-peptides can compress the nucleic acid molecule, accelerate the endosomal escape of the gene transferred into the cytosol, and help transport it from the cytosol to the nucleus. In this study, we review the peptide vectors that carry genetic material, focusing on the types conjugated to nanoparticles; because in this way, it will be possible to use the diagnostic and therapeutic properties of nanoparticles and take advantage of the gene-carrying peptides.

Keywords

References

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Journal of Isfahan Medical School
Volume 40, Issue 674
2nd Week, August
July and August 2022
Pages 398-411

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  • Receive Date: 10 August 2022
  • Accept Date: 10 August 2022

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