Gene delivery using functional dendritic polymers

Objective: This review describes a strategy for the development of multifunctional dendritic polymers for application as gene delivery systems. These polymers can address the low transfection efficiency usually encountered by synthetic non-viral vectors. Methods: Employing appropriate, well-characterized and mainly commercially available dendritic polymers, the emphasis is placed primarily on step-wise molecular engineering of their surface for providing gene carriers of low toxicity, specificity to certain cells and transport ability through their membranes, with the ultimate objective of enhanced transfection efficiency. Cationic dendritic polymers interact with appropriate genetic material, affording complexes that are employed for cell transfection. Conclusion: Multifunctionalization of dendritic polymers provides gene vectors of low toxicity, significant transfection efficiency, specificity to certain biological cells and transport ability through their membranes.