Role of nanoparticles for delivery of genetic material

Abstract

Use of nano-sized materials as systems for delivery of genetic material into living cells is new and promising approach. Recent data showed that carbon-based, metal-based, composite nanoparticles and polymer nanoparticles have a potential to carry nucleic acids into plant cells. The unique ability of nanomaterials to penetrate plant cell wall and move inside the cell in fast manner can open ways for improvement of a number of transformation techniques including particle bombardment. However, experimental attempts to use nanomaterials as carriers of DNA/RNA in planta are rare. Here, we summarize the reports on successful delivery and integration of genetic material inside plants by using different classes of nanomaterials as delivery systems.