Biologics: Targets & Therapy (May 2009)
Methods, potentials, and limitations of gene delivery to regenerate central nervous system cells
Abstract
Arvind Kumar1, Tryambak D Singh2, Santosh K Singh3, Satya Prakash41School of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science; 2Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Medical Sciences; 3Centre of Experimental Medicine and Surgery, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India; 4Biomedical Technology and Cell Therapy Research Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Physiology, Artificial Cells and Organs Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Québec, CanadaAbstract: This review evaluates methods, success and limitations of transgenes delivery in central nervous system (CNS). Both viral and nonviral (such as liposome mediated) methods, expression and stability of transgenes have been discussed. The controlled expression and delivery techniques of transgene at the injured or diseased sites have also been discussed. Mifepristone (RU486) and tetracycline-based switch system for controlled expression could be a very useful tool for clinical purposes. Here we emphasized the importance and consequences of viral- and nonviral-mediated transgenes transfer and therapeutic ability along with advantages of controlled expressions. Keywords: transgenes, viral vector, nonviral vector, RU486, tetracycline, CNS