Biomimetic pH Sensitive Polymersomes for Efficient DNA Encapsulation and Delivery

Abstract

A novel gene delivery vector based on the ability of a synthetic amphiphilic block copolymer to mimic biological phospholipids by forming membrane-enclosed structures, specifically nanometer-sized vesicles, is presented. A pH-sensitive diblock copolymer forms vesicles (polymersomes) at neutral pH, and dissolves completely as unimers at endocytic pH (see figure). GFP-encoding plasmid DNA are successfully encapsulated inside the polymer vesicles, and delivered intracellularly. Supporting information for this article is available on the WWW under http://www.wiley-vch.de/contents/jc_2089/2007/c0941_s.pdf or from the author. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.