Targeted synthetic vectors

Schaffer DV, Lauffenburger DA (2000) Targeted synthetic gene delivery vectors. Curr Opin Mol Ther 2 155-161... 

Biological Targeting. Biological vector targeting uses modification of viral coat proteins (for viral vectors) or surface properties of synthetic vectors (e.g., liposomes). 

It is essential to study the biodistribution of components involved in gene transfer (virus, synthetic vector, or nucleic acid) to identify all in vivo barriers. This study indicates what proportion of the administered dose actually reaches the target, as well as any unexpected localizations (according to the quantity at each site) or blocking sites, which is of particular interest because it allows prediction of the... 

For DNA and RNA delivery to the central nervous system (CNS), numerous nonviral nanosystems can be employed [10], These include cationic and stealth liposomes, cationic polymers, dendrimers, cyclodextrin, and cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs). In general terms, all these synthetic vectors lack of a cytotropism, i.e., they do not specifically target a single type/subtype of cell, and display different degrees of cytotoxicity. 

Li, J.-M., Collins, L., Zhang, X.-H., Gustafsson, K. and Fabre, J.W. (2000) Efficient gene delivery to vascular smooth muscle cells using a nontoxic, synthetic peptide vector system targeted to membrane integrins a first step toward the gene therapy of chronic rejection. Transplantation, 70, 1616-1624. 

Wagner E, Culmsee C, Boeckle S (2005) Targeting of polyplexes toward synthetic virus vector systems. Adv Genet 53 333-354... 

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