Synthesis and Optimization of Novel Poly-(β-amino ester) Polymer for Gene-Delivery

Gene delivery is one of the most promising methods to treat multiple diseases through the alteration of a genetic code to enhance or inhibit gene expression (NIH). The potential for gene delivery to be used as a treatment for cancerous cells is the beginning for advanced personalized healthcare. Current methods for cancer are costly, nonspecific, and come with major side effects that lowers quality of life in cancer patients. Previous studies have demonstrated Poly-(β-amino ester) (PBAE) to be biodegradable, non-toxic, and capable to deliver payloads in a targeted manner. For this study, PBAE was synthesized and characterized by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, Dynamic Light Scattering, and Zeta-Potential. Cell experiments were conducted to determine transfection efficiencies. Also, conjugation of PBAE with a cell nucleus penetrating peptide (WTAS) will be investigated to develop a more effective gene delivery system, composed of two nanocarriers. Specifically, focus is emphasized on the advancement of non-viral gene delivery systems that can have a general application towards resolving current barriers in gene therapy