Light‐Responsive Helical Polypeptides Capable of Reducing Toxicity and Unpacking DNA: Toward Nonviral Gene Delivery

Abstract

Gene delivery vehicles: Helical, cationic polypeptides with light-responsive domains showed potent membrane activity and promoted efficient cellular internalization of DNA (see picture). After transfection, a light trigger induces protecting-group removal to expose anionic carboxylate groups. The reduced cationic charge and helix distortion of the polypeptides result in enhanced DNA unpacking and reduced material toxicity because of the eliminated membrane activity.