Layer-by-layer assembled nanoparticles for siRNA delivery

Abstract

Nanoparticles synthesized via layer-by-layer processes are promising candidates for successful drug and gene delivery. Widespread use of the layer-by-layer technique has resulted from its accessibility to every lab; to generate nanoscale structures, layer-by-layer processes require common lab equipment of only modest quality and do not involve the use of organic solvents. In addition, a wide range of different starting materials can be flexibly combined, enabling the production of a nearly unlimited number of different nanoparticles (NP) with various physicochemical properties. Here we describe the manufacturing of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) NPs coated with siRNA for gene silencing. Positively charged polyethyleneimine and negatively charged nucleic acids form the polyelectrolyte shell. Finally, the NPs are functionalized with hyaluronic acid, a polysaccharide which targets the CD44 receptor.