Erhan Suleymanolu

pp. 479 - 483

Abstract

Complexes between nucleic acids and phospholipid vesicles have been developed as stable non-viral
gene delivery vehicles. Currently employed approach uses positively charged lipid species and a helper
zwitterionic lipid, the latter being applied for the stabilization of the whole complex. However, besides
problematic steps during their preparation, cationic lipids are toxic for cells. Present work describes some
energetics issues pertinent to preparation and use of neutral lipid-DNA self-assemblies, thus avoiding toxicity
of lipoplexes. Differential scanning calorimetry data showed stabilization of polynucleotide helix upon its
interaction with liposomes in the presence of divalent metal cations. It is thus possible to suggest this selfassembly as an improved formulation for use in gene delivery.