Hyaluronic acid / chitosan multilayer coatings on neuronal implants for localized delivery of siRNA nanoplexes

Binding, stabilizing and promoting cellular uptake of siRNA are all critical efforts in creating matrices for the localized delivery of siRNA molecules to target cells. In this study, we describe the generation of chitosan imidazole/siRNA nanoplexes (NPs) embedded in nano scope polyelectrolyte multilayers (PEMs) composed of hyaluronic acid and chitosan for sustained and localized drug delivery. Regular PEM build-up, successful integration of NPs and controlled release under physiological conditions were shown. Biological efficacy was evaluated in neuronal cell culture concerning cell adhesion, viability, NPs uptake and gene silencing. The additionally shown biological functionalization of neuronal implants possesses potential for future applications in the field of regenerative medicine and treatment of spinal cord injuries.

Chitosan Imid/siRNA nanoplexes (NPs) integrated into polyelectrolyte multilayers (PEMs) to biofunctionalize implant surfaces with novel nanotherapeutic coatings. The PEMs degrade with time and Ch Imid/siRNA NPs can be taken up by cells.Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (129 K)Download as PowerPoint slide