dr. Joanna Rejman: Modulation of cell functions by means of mRNA encapsulated in lipid and polymer particles

ABSTRACT

Cationic lipids and polymers can condense plasmid DNA into positively charged complexes that can interact with the plasma membrane. This interaction is typically followed by the internalization of the complexes, most commonly by endocytosis. To guarantee transfection, the complexes need to escape the endosomal compartment and pDNA needs to be released into the cytosol. Eventually, the DNA needs to cross the nuclear envelope. This last step has been reported to present a serious obstacle for transfection of non-dividing cells. To overcome this barrier we propose transfecting cells with mRNA instead of pDNA. Transfection with mRNA might additionally eliminate the risk of introducing irreversible modifications in the genome, which is an important advantage in view of future clinical applications.