Gene electrotransfer: Potential for gene therapy of renal diseases

Abstract

The ability to pursue gene therapy has been limited by the availability of an effective and safe system for gene delivery, especially to the kidney. Electroporation is an efficient method to transfer physiologically the gene to the cells without complicated preparation. Given that the systemic delivery of the functional protein can serve for the therapy of the renal diseases, skeletal muscle targeting gene therapy might be an alternative strategy for treatment of renal disease. Gene therapy to the transplant kidney may potentially improve the graft outcome by reducing acute and chronic rejections. We review on an emerging strategy of gene electrotransfer and discuss the potential application of gene therapy to renal diseases.