Glucan-encapsulated siRNA particles (GeRPs) for specific gene silencing in adipose tissue macrophages

Abstract

Macrophages are cells of the immune system that have been suggested as important regulators of whole-body metabolism in mammals. In obesity, adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) are thought to play both a detrimental and a beneficial role in the regulation of insulin sensitivity. Here, we describe a protocol to prepare and administer glucan-encapsulated RNAi particles (GeRPs), for specific delivery of siRNA and subsequent gene silencing in ATMs in obese mice. Using the GeRP technology to silence genes provides a unique method to study the function of factors expressed by ATMs in the regulation of metabolism.