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pH-sensitive, cationic liposomes: A new synthetic virus-like vector

Nature Biotechnology volume 14, pages 760–764 (1996)Cite this article

Abstract

We describe the use of cationic, pH-sensitive liposomes to mediate the efficient transfer of DNA into a variety of cells in culture. Cationic lipids, containing an amine with a pK within the physiologic range of 4.5 to 8, were synthesized and incorporated with dioleoylphosphatidylethanolamine into liposomes. Acid conditions promoted DNA-binding, DNA-incorporation, and DNA-induced fusion by these cationic, pH-sensitive liposomes. Transfection efficiency in cultured cells was dependent on endosomal acidification in a manner akin to acidic-induced endosomal release of viruses. These liposomes constitute a promising new class of reagents for gene therapy.

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Author notes

  1. Jon A. Wolff: e-mail:wolffj@macc.wisc.edu

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Departments of Pediatrics and Medical Genetics, Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, 53705

    Vladimir Budker, Vladimir Gurevich, James E. Hagstrom, Fedor Bortzov & Jon A. Wolff

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  1. Vladimir Budker
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  2. Vladimir Gurevich
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  3. James E. Hagstrom
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  4. Fedor Bortzov
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  5. Jon A. Wolff
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Budker, V., Gurevich, V., Hagstrom, J. et al. pH-sensitive, cationic liposomes: A new synthetic virus-like vector. Nat Biotechnol 14, 760–764 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1038/nbt0696-760

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