Theranostic agents for intracellular gene delivery with spatiotemporal imaging

SummaryGene therapy is the modification of gene expression to treat a disease. However, efficient intracellular delivery and monitoring of gene therapeutic agents is an ongoing challenge. Use of theranostic agents with suitable targeted, controlled delivery and imaging modalities has the potential to greatly advance gene therapy. Inorganic nanoparticles including magnetic nanoparticles, gold nanoparticles, and quantum dots have been shown to be effective theranostic agents for the delivery and spatiotemporal tracking of oligonucleotides in vitro and even a few cases in vivo. Major concerns remain to be addressed including cytotoxicity, particularly of quantum dots; effective dosage of nanoparticles for optimal theranostic effect; development of real-time in vivo imaging; and further improvement of gene therapy efficacy.

Schematic of gene delivery and imaging by theranostic inorganic nanoparticles.Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (144 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Inorganic nanoparticles are effective theranostic agents for gene transfection.
► The response to light or magnetic field imparts noninvasive delivery control and/or spatiotemporal tracking capabilities.
► Further development of in vitro and in vivo testing and increased gene therapy efficacy is necessary for clinical success.