Applications of injectable polymeric implants for protein and DNA delivery

• Published in: Israel journal of chemistry 2005-09, Vol.45 (4), p.437-444
• Main Authors: Eliaz, Rom E., Kost, Joseph
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0021-2148; 1869-5868
• DOI: 10.1560/46J1-TPK4-JXY7-12Q7

We developed a monolithic protein and gene delivery system where an implant is formed following injection to the site of need. This implant can be used for the controlled release of small molecules, proteins, and genes over a 2‐month period. As an example of the protein delivery system, sustained release of the soluble tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor (sp55‐R) from the injectable implant was used as a long‐term protection device against the harmful pathological effects of TNF. When the system is used to release DNA, a robust and prolonged gene expression at the site of need can be obtained. Furthermore, when the system was used for controlled delivery of the appropriate plasmid DNA, it resulted in the sustained expression of luciferase, the persistent appearance of secreted alkaline phosphatase in the serum, and small blood vessel formation in the vicinity of the implant from the delivery of the development endothelial locus‐1 gene. This delivery system involves simple preparation procedures and can be injected directly into the site, and therefore should be a useful approach to drug delivery, protein therapy, and plasmid‐based gene transfer for vaccination and tissue engineering.