The gene transfection and endocytic uptake pathways mediated by PEGylated PEI-entrapped gold nanoparticles

The development of gene vectors is the vital step in gene therapy. The cationic polymer polyethylenimine (PEI) is widely applied as an efficient and low cost nonviral gene vehicle. However, its further practical applications in gene therapy are limited due to its high cytotoxicity. To obtain safe and efficient gene vectors, hydrophilic polyethylene glycol (PEG) has been conjugated onto its surface due to its good biocompatibility, and the...