DNA-lipid-apatite composite layers enhance gene expression of mesenchymal stem cells

► A lipid was loaded with DNA into apatite layer (DLp-Ap). ► The DLp-Ap layer markedly increases gene transfer efficiency to fibroblast in vitro. ► The DLp-Ap layer markedly increases gene transfer efficiency to MSCs in vitro. ► DLp-Ap layer increases BMP-2 expression and osteogenic differentiation in vivo. ► The DLp-Ap layers would be useful in bone tissue engineering.