The role of the cationic and helper lipids on niosomes for gene delivery applications: transfection of retina and brain as a main goal.

Abstract

Currently, gene delivery has become a tangible option for the treatment of several diseases. However, there are few available options in the market, where viral vectors are the preferred option due to their high transduction efficiency. Despite the advantages that viral vectors offer, there are still many concerns about their safety. To overcome this issue, non-viral vectors have rouse interesting expectations, specifically on particles based on cationic lipids, where niosomes are a promising approach due to recent findings. Unfortunately, more research is needed bejore niosomes, as gene delivery vectors, can emulate transfection efficiencies obtained with viral vectors and be launched into the market. In the present study, we have prepared and characterized in vitro niosome formulations based on different cationic lipids for their in vivo application in retina and brain.