Nucleic Acid Delivery via Polymer Vehicles

Structure-property relationships between polymers and their ability to interact with nucleic acids such as oligonucleotides, small interfering RNAs, and plasmid DNAs in order to deliver them into cells in culture and in mammals are described. The structure of the polymers has a strong influence on their ability to bind to nucleic acids and function as delivery agents. Numerous structural features are illustrated and their effects on nucleic acid delivery into cultured cells are described. The features necessary for systemic delivery of nucleic acids in mammals are outlined, and examples of polymer delivery systems and their function in mice are illustrated. Finally, the very few examples of polymer-based delivery of nucleic acids in humans are presented.