Non Viral Vectors For Gene Therapy

Gene transfer within humans has been an obstacle until about 10 years ago. At that time, it was found that viral vectors were effective carriers of "healthy genes" into patients' cells. The problem, however, was that viral vectors proved unnecessarily harmful to humans: subjects experienced inflamatory activity and negative immunological responses to the genes. Viral vectors were also unable to meet the needs of the pharmaceutical community: they were not reproducible in large-scale proportions in cost-effective ways. Thus, research was undertaken to find a safer way to transfer genes to patients without jeopardizing the safety of the patient. And so non-viral vectors were discovered. This volume presents the various non-viral vectors currently under development. Although not methodologically oriented, it will provide the necessary details behind the development of the vectors. This information will prove useful to both researchers and clinicians. Key Features * Presents state-of-the art developments of nonviral vectors as tools for modern molecular medicine * Covers all types of nonviral vectors, from molecular structure to therapeutic application Provides a comprehensive review of synthetic vectors * Includes contributions from major investigators and leading experts in the field

The field of non-viral vector research has rapidly progressed since the publication of the first edition. This new edition is expanded to two separate volumes that contain in-depth discussions of different non-viral approaches, including cationic liposomes and polymers, naked DNA and various physical methods of delivery, as well as a comprehensive coverage of the molecular biological designs of the plasmid DNA for reduced toxicity, prolonged expression and tissue or disease specific genes. New developments such as the toxicity of the non-viral vectors and recent advances in nucleic acid therapeutics are fully covered in these volumes.

Annotation The field of non-viral vector research has rapidly progressed since the publication of the first edition. This new edition is expanded to two separate volumes that contain in-depth discussions of different non-viral approaches, including cationic liposomes and polymers, naked DNA and various physical methods of delivery, as well as a comprehensive coverage of the molecular biological designs of the plasmid DNA for reduced toxicity, prolonged expression and tissue or disease specific genes. New developments such as the toxicity of the non-viral vectors and recent advances in nucleic acid therapeutics are fully covered in these volumes.

Presents information on non-viral gene-delivery techniques, covering a spectrum of disciplines that include chemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, and pharmacokinetics. This work is useful to researchers and engineers in genetic engineering, molecular medicine, biochemical engineering, and biotechnology.

Polymers and Nanomaterials for Gene Therapy provides the latest information on gene therapy, a topic that has attracted significant attention over the past two decades for the treatment of inherited and acquired genetic diseases. Major research efforts are currently focused on designing suitable carrier vectors that compact and protect oligonucleotides for gene therapy. The book explores the most recent developments in the field of polymer science and nanotechnology, and how these advancements have helped in the design of advanced materials. Non-viral vector systems, including cationic lipids, polymers, dendrimers, peptides and nanoparticles, are potential routes for compacting DNA for systemic delivery. However, unlike viral analogues that have no difficulty in overcoming cellular barriers and immune defense mechanisms, non-viral gene carriers consistently exhibit significant reduced transfection efficiency due to numerous extra- and intracellular obstacles. Therefore, biocompatibility and potential for large-scale production make these compounds increasingly attractive for gene therapy. This book contains chapters on the engineering of polymers and nanomaterials for gene therapy, and how they can form complexes with DNA and avoid both in vitro and in vivo barriers. Other chapters describe in vitro, ex vivo, in vivo gene therapy studies, and the current issues affecting non-viral gene therapy. Explores current challenges in the research of genetic diseases Discusses polymers for gene therapy and their function in designing advanced materials Provides examples of organic and inorganic nanomaterials for gene therapy Includes labeling, targeting, and assays Looks at characterization, physico-(bio)chemical properties, and applications

Metallosurfactants Provides up-to-date coverage of the synthesis, properties, and applications of metallosurfactants Metallosurfactants: From Fundamentals to Catalytic and Biomedical Applications is a thorough introduction to amphiphilic compounds that allow to incorporate metal ions in the surfactant system. This comprehensive reference and guide describes the fundamentals of metal surfactant complexes, highlights recent advances in the field, and explores current and future applications and research areas. Gradually progressing from basic to advanced topics, the authors first explain the classification and characterization of metallosurfactants before delving into more complex concepts and various catalytic, sensing, and biomedical applications. The book begins with coverage of the synthesis of metallosurfactants and their surface, interfacial, and aggregation behavior. Subsequent chapters discuss applications of metallosurfactants in areas such as drug delivery, molecular machines, transfection, nanoparticle synthesis, and carbon monoxide-releasing molecules (CORMs). Other topics include the use of metallosurfactants as catalysts in organic reactions, and as anticancer and antimicrobial agents in drug delivery and formulation. This unique reference Provides an overview of the structure-function relationship, synthesis methods, and characterization of metallosurfactants Reviews current trends in metallosurfactant development and research Examines the use of metallosurfactants in a wide range of reactions, including esterolytic reactions and hydrogen generation Discusses advanced applications of metallosurfactants, e.g. as nanoreactors for nanoparticle synthesis, non-viral transfection vectors, and sensors Metallosurfactants: From Fundamentals to Catalytic and Biomedical Applications is an excellent introduction to the growing field of metallosurfactant chemistry as well as a concise, highly useful reference for researchers and scientists in both academia and industry.

The field of genetics is rapidly evolving, and new medical breakthroughs are occurring as a result of advances in our knowledge of genetics. Advances in Genetics continually publishes important reviews of the broadest interest to geneticists and their colleagues in affiliated disciplines. Includes methods for testing with ethical, legal, and social implications Critically analyzes future directions Written and edited by recognized leaders in the field

The field of non-viral vector research has rapidly progressed since the publication of the first edition. This new edition is expanded to two separate volumes that contain in-depth discussions of different non-viral approaches, including cationic liposomes and polymers, naked DNA and various physical methods of delivery, as well as a comprehensive coverage of the molecular biological designs of the plasmid DNA for reduced toxicity, prolonged expression and tissue or disease specific genes. New developments such as the toxicity of the non-viral vectors and recent advances in nucleic acid therapeutics are fully covered in these volumes.