Abstract
Cationic polymers have been of interest and importance as nonviral gene delivery carriers. Herein, well-defined comb-shaped cationic copolymers (HPDs) composed of long biocompatible hydroxypropyl cellulose (or HPC) backbones and short poly((2-dimethyl amino)ethyl methacrylate) (or P(DMAEMA)) side chains were prepared as gene vectors via atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) from the bromoisobutyryl-terminated HPC biopolymers. The P(DMAEMA) side chains of HPDs can be further partially quaternized to produce the quaternary ammonium HPDs (QHPDs). HPDs and QHPDs were assessed in vitro for nonviral gene delivery. HPDs exhibit much lower cytotoxicity and better gene transfection yield than high-molecular-weight P(DMAEMA) homopolymers. QHPDs exhibit a stronger ability to complex pDNA, due to increased surface cationic charges. Thus, the approach to well-defined comb-shaped cationic copolymers provides a versatile means for tailoring the functional structure of nonviral gene vectors to meet the requirements of strong DNA-condensing ability and high transfection capability.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
