Delivery of DNA, RNA, and Proteins by Cationic Liposomes

Physical methods for DNA transfer include: direct injection of DNA into organs of live animals, with successful applications in DNA vaccination against disease, and micro projectile biolistics using a gene-propelling gun mostly for gene therapy purposes. Chemical methods for DNA delivery are among the promising available technology for gene tranfer to combat disease. The choice of DNA is justified by the stability of DNA in comparison to other macromolecules, including RNA and protein. Transient delivery of macromolecules such as proteins can be a challenge and/or toxic or injurious when the common delivery protocols are employed, including electroporation, scrape-loading, and liposome encapsulation. An interesting and novel application for protein delivery with cationic liposomes was introduced by X. Gao and L. Huang. One of the most important applications of gene transfer studies is gene therapy of human diseases. One important field yet to benefit from cationic liposome-mediated gene delivery is biotechnology.