A Chemistry/Physics Pathway with Nanofibrous Scaffolds for Gene Delivery

Benjamin Chu, Stony Brook University, DMR 0454887

Introduction of a new pathway for non-viral gene delivery by taking advantage of nanofibrous scaffolds as gene storage devices, gene carriers and homing devices.Electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds can be used to store stabilized DNA fragments, such as those in encapsulated forms as shown in Fig.1 or in the form of a polyplex, which is a complex of DNA fragments with polycations, e.g., branched polyethylene-imine (bPEI). The scaffolds can be designed to attract cells which can adhere, penetrate, differentiate and proliferate, as shown in Fig.2. In the meantime, it is biodegradable with a tailored degradation profile to deliver the incorporated DNA fragments at the right moment, as illustrated in Fig. 3.Reference: PCCP Perspective

DOI: 10.1039/c002515a

Many gene related diseases may be cured if one can introduce healthy genes into cells. Individual steps have been tested. The overall process is in in vitro testing. The approach is targeted for bone regeneration; it is also applicable for drug delivery.The proposed pathway involves an interdisciplinary approach using fundamental knowledge in polymer materials chemistry and physics, electro-spinning for the fabrication of non-woven nanofibrous mats, and biological understanding on cell behavior and cytotoxicity. The combination has attracted many students, from high school students to senior scientists. While graduate students have won best thesis awards, many high school students became Intel/Siemens semi-finalists and two students became regional finalists.

A Chemistry/Physics Pathway with Nanofibrous Scaffolds for Gene Delivery

Benjamin Chu, Stony Brook University, DMR 0454887