Modified gelatin nanoparticles for gene delivery

Abstract

Gelatin nanoparticles (GNPs) are one of the most extensively used natural polymers for gene therapy. With advantages of being biodegradable, biocompatible, low cost and easily modified, gelatin holds great promise as a non-viral system for gene delivery. This review examines various methods of preparation of modified gelatin nanoparticles and considers how these modifications apply to gene delivery. The article discusses cationic gelatin, PEGylated gelatin, thiolated gelatin, alendronate gelatin, and EGFR gelatin nanoparticles. This article also considers several advantages of these modifications and their contribution to the improvement in the efficiency of these systems, resulting in superior transfection and enhanced gene delivery in general.