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Cationic liposome‐mediated gene transfer to rat salivary epithelial cells in vitro and in vivo
Author(s) -
Baccaglini Lorena,
Shamsul Hoque A. T. M.,
Wellner Robert B.,
Goldsmith Corinne M.,
Redman Robert S.,
Sankar Vidya,
Kingman Albert,
Barnhart Kerry M.,
Wheeler Carl J.,
Baum Bruce J.
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
the journal of gene medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.689
H-Index - 91
eISSN - 1521-2254
pISSN - 1099-498X
DOI - 10.1002/1521-2254(2000)9999:9999<::aid-jgm151>3.0.co;2-x
Subject(s) - transfection , in vivo , salivary gland , microbiology and biotechnology , cationic liposome , in vitro , liposome , genetic enhancement , saliva , reporter gene , biology , plasmid , submandibular gland , chemistry , gene , gene expression , biochemistry , endocrinology
Background Previously we have shown that gene transfer to salivary gland epithelial cells readily occurs via recombinant adenoviruses, although the response is short‐lived and results in a potent host immune response. The aim of the present study was to assess the feasibility of using cationic liposomes to mediate gene transfer to rat salivary cells in vitro and in vivo . Methods Initially, for transfection in vitro , we used two cationic liposome formulations (GAP‐DLRIE/DOPE and DOSPA/DOPE) complexed with plasmid encoding human growth hormone (hGH) as a reporter gene. Thereafter, using GAP‐DLRIE/DOPE, plasmids were transferred to rat salivary glands in vivo , and hGH levels measured in saliva, serum and gland extracts. Results Under optimal conditions, transfection of rat submandibular glands (SMGs) was consistently observed. Approximately 95% of the cells transfected with a plasmid encoding β‐galactosidase were acinar cells. Maximal hGH expression was obtained during the first 48 h post‐transfection using a plasmid encoding the hGH cDNA and complexed with GAP‐DLRIE/DOPE. hGH was detected in gland extracts and saliva, and occasionally in serum. No systemic or local gland pathology was consistently or significantly observed. Conclusions The levels of the reporter gene product, hGH, obtained after GAP‐DLRIE/DOPE‐mediated gene transfer are considerably lower (<0.5%) than those achieved with adenoviral vectors (10 8 PFU). Nonetheless, cationic liposome‐mediated gene transfer to salivary glands may be useful for potential therapeutic applications. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.