Fine-tuning of proton sponges by precise diaminoethanes and histidines in pDNA polyplexes.

The cationizable nature of 'proton-sponge' transfection agents facilitates pDNA delivery in several steps. Protonated amines account for electrostatic DNA binding and cellular uptake, buffering amines mediate polyplex escape from acidifying intracellular vesicles. As demonstrated with a sequence-defined library of oligo(ethanamino)amides containing selected oligoethanamino acids and histidines, the total protonation capacity as well as the cationization pH profile within the endolysosomal range have critical impact on gene transfer. Building blocks with even numbered amine groups (Gtt, Sph) exhibited higher total endolysosomal buffer capacity than odd number (Stp) analogs. Within the endolysosomal range, Gtt has the highest buffer capacity around pH5, whereas Stp has its maximum around pH7. Histidines increased the total buffer capacity, resulted in a more continuous cationization pH profile and greatly improved transgene expression in vitro and in vivo. Using receptor targeted and polyethylene glycol shielded polyplexes, better endosomal escape and >100-fold enhanced transfection was detected. FROM THE CLINICAL EDITOR: Proton-sponge transfection agents for pDNA delivery are characterized in this study, demonstrating over 100-fold enhanced transection and better endosomal escape by using receptor targeted and polyethylene glycol shielded polyplexes.

Tuning nanoparticle uptake: live-cell imaging reveals two distinct endocytosis mechanisms mediated by natural and artificial EGFR targeting ligand.

Therapeutic nanoparticles can be directed to cancer cells by incorporating selective targeting ligands. Here, we investigate the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mediated endocytosis of gene carriers (polyplexes) either targeted with natural EGF or GE11, a short synthetic EGFR-binding peptide. Highly sensitive live-cell fluorescence microcopy with single particle resolution unraveled the existence of two different uptake mechanisms; EGF triggers accelerated nanoparticle endocytosis due to its dual active role in receptor binding and signaling activation. For GE11, an alternative EGFR signaling independent, actin-driven pathway is presented.

Enhanced bioactivity of internally functionalized cationic dendrimers with PEG cores.

Hybrid dendritic-linear block copolymers based on a 4-arm poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) core were synthesized using an accelerated AB2/CD2 dendritic growth approach through orthogonal amine/epoxy and thiol-yne chemistries. The biological activity of these 4-arm and the corresponding 2-arm hybrid dendrimers revealed an enhanced, dendritic effect with an exponential increase in cell internalization concomitant with increasing amine end groups and low cytotoxicity. Furthermore, the ability of these hybrid dendrimers to induce endosomal escape combined with their facile and efficient synthesis makes them attractive platforms for gene transfection. The 4-arm-based dendrimer showed significantly improved DNA binding and gene transfection capabilities in comparison with the 2-arm derivative. These results combined with the MD simulation indicate a significant effect of both the topology of the PEG core and the multivalency of these hybrid macromolecules on their DNA binding and delivery capablities.