Efficient gene transfection in the neurotypic cells by star-shaped polymer consisting of β-cyclodextrin core and poly(amidoamine) dendron arms

► Tested the β-CD-(D3)7 as the vector to transfect the human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. ► Exhibited good physicochemical properties of the β-CD-(D3)7/plasmid DNA (pDNA) complexes. ► Exhibited a low cytotoxicity and efficient pDNA transfection capability in SH-SY5Y cells. ► β-CD-(D3)7 might be a promising candidate for neurotypic cells gene delivery.