Active transport of exogenous genes into the nucleus

Abstract

9 Conclusions: In order to enhance transgene expression, it is crucial to promote nuclear import of exogenous DNA contained in non-viral gene delivery systems. In mammalian cells, factors concerning nucleocytoplasmic transport have steadily been identified. As a result, significant progress has been made in the development of non-viral gene delivery systems capable of nuclear import. Currently, two approaches to active nuclear import of DNA are available. One is the importin-mediated pathway and the other is the lectin-mediated pathway. Both pathways have confirmed the import of plasmid DNA from the cytoplasm to the nucleus of eukaryotic cells via an active nuclear import system. These studies have also shown that the control of the complex size is an important factor in the nuclear import of DNA. For use in gene therapies aimed at treating genetic diseases, not only the safety of the complex but also the enhancement of nuclear import of the transgene are essential considerations. Along with further elucidation of nucleocytoplasmic transport systems of mammalian cells, progress in utilizing intracellular active transport systems for shuttling exogenous DNA into the nucleus can be expected in the near future.